Document elcerrito_gov_doc_935d25d373

AGENDA BILL Agenda Item No. 4(C) Date: March 4, 2014 To: El Cerrito City Council From: Karen Pinkos, Assistant City Manager Subject: 2014 Library Space Needs Assessment Update ACTION REQUESTED Receive a presentation from Page, of Page Associates, on the 2014 El Cerrito Library Space Needs Assessment Update and provide comments to staff. BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS The City’s Strategic Plan identifies “Develop and Rehabilitate Public Facilities as Community Focal Points” as a primary goal. The strategies outlined for this goal include continuing to assess facilities to prioritize and strategize investment library, public safety building, senior center, community center). Page was originally selected as the City’s consultant in 2005 as a result of a competitive procurement process to develop a needs assessment and building program for the El Cerrito Library. This project anticipated applying for grant funding from a State Library Bond Construction program, and sought to fulfill the grant requirements of such a program (the ballot measure for the construction bonds, however, failed in 2006). The resulting needs assessment document completed and presented to the City Council in 2006 recognized the deficiencies in the current library facility and recommended a larger facility with upgraded technology, larger collection, and increased seating capacity including flexible meeting space for groups and studying. The recommended space requirements to include all of the identified elements called for expanding the size of the building to approximately 21,000 square feet. In the years since the needs assessment was completed, no opportunities for funding a library building through grants or bonds at the State level have materialized, and with the loss of the City’s Redevelopment Agency, no new revenue streams have been identified nor projected. City staff has concluded that the best method for funding a new library facility must ultimately rely on new revenue generated by a measure approved by the voters of El Cerrito. On July 16, 2013, the City Council received a presentation from Bryan Godbe of Godbe Research that indicated voter support for a new library facility, as well as support for several elements of recreational/community center facilities that could be harmonious with a library. Staff received consensus from the Council to pursue planning for a new library building, including the steps necessary to consider a ballot measure to fund the facility in November 2016. ---PAGE BREAK--- Agenda Item No. 4(C) To begin the planning process, staff engaged Ms. Page in 2013 to conduct an update of the 2006 needs assessment document, to include the most current trends in the library industry and to use refreshed data and community input. Ms. Page conducted her analysis throughout the fall of 2013/early winter 2014 and has completed the draft update as of February 2014. A copy of the document has been provided to the City Council for review, as well as to El Cerrito Library staff, Contra Costa Library staff, and community library groups. Staff anticipates that comments, concerns, and feedback from the Council and the public based on this presentation will be taken under consideration and could be incorporated within the conceptual design process when it begins. NEXT STEPS As discussed in July 2013, the Godbe survey results indicated that November 2016 is the likely best choice for a ballot measure. The general timeline for the development of the library facility remains the following: 2013-2014 • Update Needs Assessment--COMPLETED • Request For Proposals for architectural services • Site for building identified and secured 2015 • Conceptual design of building • Site studies and Environmental Review • Financing Plan developed • Public outreach efforts begin 2016 • Public information continues • Refined polling survey (May-June) • City Council places measure on ballot (July) FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS There is no impact at this time. The needs assessment update, as discussed during the FY 2013-14 budget process, was funded within the current year's appropriation limit. The actual cost of the library facility will be refined and discussed in more detail during the conceptual design phase. Attachment: 1. 2014 El Cerrito Library Space Needs Assessment Update Page 2 ---PAGE BREAK--- El Cerrito Library SPACE NEEDS ASSESSMENT UPDATE February 2014 DRAFT Prepared by Page Associates 354 Los Palmos Drive San Francisco CA 94127 DRAFT Agenda Item No. 4(C) Attachment 1 ---PAGE BREAK--- El Cerrito Library Space Needs Assessment Update 2014 DRAFT Table of Contents 1. Executive Summary 1 2. Project Purpose and Methodology 3 3. Service Population and Community Demographics 4 4. Community Input Findings 6 • Focus Groups and Community Meeting 6 • Community Survey 8 • Findings 10 5. Current Library Service Levels 12 6. Needs Assessment Findings and Recommendations 13 • Overview and Service Level Recommendations 13 • Collection Shelving 14 • Collection Size 14 • Public Computer Access 16 • Seating 17 • Programming and Meeting Room Space 18 • Service Delivery Strategies and Service Points 19 • Partnerships and Joint-Use Facilities 20 • Amenities 21 • Building Size 22 Appendices: Community Input Meeting Summaries: A1 School Principals and Afterschool Care Coordinators A2 Friends of the Library A3 Parents of School Age Children DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- A4 General Community Meeting A5 Adult School ESL Class, Fairmont Elementary School A6 Students, El Cerrito Senior High School A7 Community Survey Results Spaces Template B1 El Cerrito Library Space Needs Summary B2 El Cerrito Library Detailed Spaces Summary B3 El Cerrito Library Collection Growth Plan B4 El Cerrito Library Collection and Shelving Needs B5 El Cerrito Library Public Seating Needs B6 El Cerrito Library Computers and Other Equipment Needs DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- El Cerrito Library Space Needs Assessment Update DRAFT 1. Executive Summary Study Purpose and Scope The goal of the Library Space Needs Assessment Update was to review the Needs Assessment completed in 2006 and revise recommendations as needed to match changing community demographics, incorporate residents’ expressed service priorities and reflect current best planning practice for libraries. The consultant worked with the City and the Library to gather fresh community input both in person and through surveys, update service population projections and census data, update Library service patterns and service innovations, compare and assess the data in the context of current library industry design trends. Specific space need recommendations were then developed that the City can use as a basis for planning a new library facility to serve El Cerrito. Needs Assessment Update The update took place from September 2013 through January 2014. Over 80 people participated in targeted focus groups and a general community meeting. A community-wide survey distributed both online and in print form elicited 266 responses. Additional valuable input was received through a strategic planning process conducted by the County Library during the same time period. The consultant spent time observing public use of the current library and interviewed Library staff to better understand service usage patterns. The space needs analysis revealed that lack of space and an obsolete physical structure remain the underlying obstacles to meeting El Cerrito residents’ library service needs. The existing building is 6,500 square feet in size and has been in continuous operation in its current configuration for the past 53 years, following a building expansion in 1960. Both the community and public library service have evolved almost beyond recognition during that time. The Library in its current iteration can offer just a small sampling of the services and features that residents want, need and expect to find at their library. Residents continue to use the library facility even with its limitations. Library visits have increased 20% since 2005/06 and circulation is up 35%. Remarkably, these increases have occurred even though the Library’s hours and staffing have remained static. Service innovations, a fresh approach to collection management and invigorated children’s programming each has played a part in these trends. Creativity within the current building footprint can improve the status quo only so far. A significant increase in space and a well-designed, efficient, technologically-current building are necessary to provide El Cerrito residents with a library that meets their needs. A facility that offers approximately 20,845 square feet is recommended for El Cerrito to meet both current and projected library service needs through the year 2030 and beyond. A one-story library is recommended to keep staffing and operational costs to a minimum and to provide optimal building efficiency. The total amount of square footage is actually less than the total recommended in 2006, by approximately 800 square feet, as the result of changes proposed in the use of space and square footage allocations within the building. These changes include: • Increase the physical collection 68% to 60,320 books and AV media available onsite as well as access to econtent through the County Library website. • Shelve the physical collection on mid-height shelving that encourages browsing and display instead of traditional full-height book stacks. 1 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- El Cerrito Library Space Needs Assessment Update DRAFT • Increase seating to 134 open access seats as well as six group study/tutoring/collaboration rooms with a total of 56 seats. • Expand computer access, from the current 8 workstations to 66 computers, including a mix of standard desktop units and laptops for in-library checkout. • Add a learning space that can be used for computer-based workshops or informal group collaborations and projects. • Add a tutoring and homework study area that can be used by individual students or by tutoring groups. • Include a dedicated, acoustically separate community meeting room that seats 125 with up- to-date AV equipment, a refreshment prep kitchen and secure storage space for tables and chairs. 2 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- El Cerrito Library Space Needs Assessment Update DRAFT 2. Project Purpose and Methodology In August 2013, the City of El Cerrito engaged Page Associates, a library planning consultant firm, to review and update an assessment of the City’s library completed in 2006, to ensure that the new facility the City plans to build meets community needs and is in keeping with current and emerging library design trends. The City needs confirmation that the building recommended is appropriate sized, includes an appropriate configuration of spaces and will serve the community well into the future. The needs assessment update included a community survey available both online and in print format with translation into languages other than English available on request, a well-publicized general community input meeting and design trends presentation, as well as focused conversations with key constituents groups, including teens, parents of school age children, adult school students, K-12 educators, afterschool child care providers and the Friends of the Library. The consultant also reviewed updated community demographic data, library usage statistics and input gathered during a strategic planning process undertaken by the Contra Costa County Library in 2013. Ms. Page toured the existing library, observed activity during open hours and spoke at length with the El Cerrito Library staff about how the public uses the Library and space-related service issues. She analyzed and compared input from all sources to input received in 2005/06 during the initial assessment process. The consultant developed revised service level recommendations based on these findings. The recommendations were developed within the context of current best planning practice for libraries in the United States, with particular attention to trends within California. The consultant discussed service delivery strategies with both City and County Library representatives to ensure agreement on approach, such as incorporating self-service technologies and a combined service point. The recommendations were refined and expanded to create a proposed outline of space needs for the new library. The City will be able to use the space needs outline as a basis for a cost estimate for the project, including design, construction and operation of the new building. 3 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- El Cerrito Library Space Needs Assessment Update DRAFT 3. Service Population and Community Demographics The Library serves El Cerrito’s 23,549 residents1 and students enrolled in public schools located in El Cerrito. Population size has remained stable since the 1990s and only modest growth is projected over the next twenty years. By 2030, an estimated 25,600 residents will live in town – an increase that represents, on average, approximately 100 additional residents each year. The community is in transition, however, experiencing a steady increase in families with children. Family households with children under 18 grew by 13% between 2000 and 2010 although the overall population grew only The average household size increased from 2.25 to 2.31 during the last decade. Residents are culturally and linguistically diverse with more than one-third (36.4%) bilingual and 31.5% foreign-born. The K-12 student population mirrors this diversity, as shown in the chart below. El Cerrito Public School Student Ethnicity 2012/132 Ethnicity Enrollment Percentage African American 770 23% American Indian 11 less than 1% Asian 680 21% Filipino 111 3% Latino/Hispanic 907 27% Pacific Islander 20 1% White 758 23% Two or More Races 32 less than 1% Not Reported 17 less than 1% Total 3,306 Public school enrollment has remained steady over the past several years and is beginning to increase even though one of the four elementary schools that served the community in 2005/06 has closed and its students been reassigned. Current year enrollment is 3,306, a 2% increase from 2006. El Cerrito Public School Enrollment3 2005/06 2011/12 2012/13 Castro 316 Fairmont 276 555 590 Harding 289 365 343 Madera 351 525 551 Portola Middle School 640 466 525 El Cerrito High School 1,363 1,303 1,297 Total 3,235 3,214 3,306 Older adults continue to represent a sizeable portion of the population. In 2010, almost 33% of El Cerritans were 55 years or older, compared to 32% in 1990 and 30.4% in 2000. It is interesting to note that the County population is aging as well, and at a faster rate than El Cerrito. In 2010, 24.6% of County residents were 55 or older, compared to just 20.2% in 2000 and the County 1 2010 U.S. Census and City of El Cerrito Environmental Scan, January 2013. 2 California Department of Education, Educational Demographics Unit, DataQuest website, www.cde.ca.gov 3 Op. cit. 4 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- El Cerrito Library Space Needs Assessment Update DRAFT median age jumped from 36.4 to 38.5 years during the last decade. El Cerrito’s median age, on the other hand, rose only from 42.7 in 2000 to 43.5 in 2010. Clearly, the El Cerrito population is in transition. Library service in El Cerrito needs to address the needs of this diverse, changing population and anticipate changing needs as the youth population continues to grow. 5 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- El Cerrito Library Space Needs Assessment Update DRAFT 4. Community Input Findings The consultant worked with the City and Library to gather input about community members’ experience with the Library, their library usage patterns and the priorities they expressed regarding library services. In addition, current input was compared with input gathered in 2005/06 to identify shifts in needs or priorities during the eight years since the original needs assessment took place. Input included both a citywide survey and focused conversations with specific constituencies to ensure that a wide variety of voices was heard. A strategic planning process undertaken by the County Library in Fall 2013 offered an opportunity to expand the scope of input through comments gathered at a well-attended Town Hall meeting and a series of key informant interviews conducted by Liz Ruhland, the El Cerrito Library manager. Appendices A1 – A6 provide detailed summaries of each session. Focus Groups and Community Meeting The following sessions were held, with a total of approximately 88 participants: 10/3/13 School Principals and Afterschool Care Coordinators 10/8/13 Friends of the Library 10/14/13 Parents of School Age Children 10/24/13 General Community Meeting 10/29/13 Adult School ESL Class, Fairmont Elementary School 11/7/13 Students, El Cerrito High School School Principals and Afterschool Care Coordinators Attendees emphasized that the students they work with are extremely diverse socio-economically and love all forms of technology. The City of El Cerrito and the schools have forged a partnership to provide afterschool care. The Library would and should join this partnership, providing augmented access to “leveled reading” material, homework help space (the City and School District could provide personnel), tutoring and group study space, and simple “space to talk”. College prep materials could be highlighted in the space for older kids. Space for parents to wait or read while their kids are tutored would also help. Access to a café would attract family groups as well as students. Collections and programs need to reflect the multicultural diversity of the community. The group emphasized that convenient access to public transit is essential to reassure parents that their children can get home safely. Friends of the Library Ten active members and officers of the Friends of the Library shared their thoughts about the new library and about the space needs of the Friends book donation and sale operation. Comments focused on the need for larger, bookable meeting room space, good acoustics, comfortable seating with ubiquitous wifi access, more computers, sustainable design, views to the exterior and a welcoming, comfortable environment (with or without a fireplace). One attendee mentioned the need to “pay attention to the future” and focus on the needs of children and families moving into town. Another encouraged creating media-focused space for teens similar to the Chicago Public Library You Media space. The Friends would like an expanded ongoing book sale presence in the new library, with dedicated space and display shelving located prominently off the lobby. Opinions varied regarding associating the book store with a food and drink concession (as well as on the pros and cons of 6 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- El Cerrito Library Space Needs Assessment Update DRAFT offering refreshments at all). Attendees emphasized that functional, appropriately sized donations sorting and processing space will be important to the enhanced book sale operation. Parents of School Age Children Five sets of parents with children between the years of 3 and 6 met with the consultant during Library story time to express their views and vision for the new library. The strongest needs expressed were the availability of a viable children’s book and DVD collection as well as additional, varied programming and an acoustically buffered, appropriate space for children’s programs and events. Repeatedly, parents noted that they have exhausted the on-site collections of print and media. Several stated that they travel to multiple libraries in the area to select books. A larger collection for children was seen as an important service need. Cozy seating for parents and children to read together was also suggested. Adult School ESL Class, Fairmont Elementary School Thirteen adults participated in the session, 10 of whom were El Cerrito residents. Participants ranged in age from the early thirties to over 60 years old and included native speakers of Mandarin, Cantonese, Farsi, Spanish, Vietnamese and Arabic. Eight reported that they use the El Cerrito Library (although several indicated they are not frequent users). Participants suggested the following services would likely bring them to the library – increased Chinese language books, newspapers and media, additional seating and quiet spaces for reading and study, homework help for their children (4 have children under 18 still living at home), a café, a larger selection of English language books (such as art techniques), jobs and career workshops, computer classes and ESL conversation practice classes. Students, El Cerrito High School Twenty students in the ECHS Media Class, which is responsible for broadcasting programs over the school radio station, met with the consultant to comment on how the new library could and should serve teens. Participants underscored the need for dedicated teen space both for quiet, uninterrupted study and for collaboration space – an area in which two or more students can talk without disturbing others. Other needs included tutoring space, access to computers, a book collection for teens, wifi access and plug-in capability, a place to buy snacks that can be consumed at the library and teen programs, such as video gaming events or a book club for teens. The new library location was also a major topic. Students emphasized that the library must be walkable from the high school campus. Community Input Meeting A general community meeting was held in mid-October, to follow up on the County Library Town Hall meeting in September and offer an input venue for residents not represented by one of the focus groups. The meeting was publicized widely and attracted approximately 30 participants, primarily older adults. Ms. Page presented a summary and slideshow of current library service and design trends and then asked the group how the new library can best serve the community: • A larger collection that reflects community members’ interests – “more like Cody’s Books than Barnes & Noble” – offering both print and digital collections. • A facility that serves as a gathering spot for the community. • Multicultural and inclusive of all residents, including non-native English speakers and LGBT community, with bilingual collections. 7 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- El Cerrito Library Space Needs Assessment Update DRAFT • A “hub of sharing” with multifunctional community meeting rooms outfitted with easily operable AV equipment and plentiful group study space. • Expanded range of services made possible through community partnerships. • A welcoming, vibrant, architecturally significant and functional design, accessible throughout, accommodating technology well into the future. • A flexible design that will serve the City over the long haul. • Increased space and emphasis on services to children and families, including features like stroller parking. • Student support space and adult literacy space. • Good public transit access, sufficient parking capacity for cars and bicycles and well-designed parking access. • Café space, especially if the location is not adjacent to a retail center. Community Survey The survey was posted on both the City and Library websites from late September through mid- November. In addition, print surveys were distributed at the Library and versions translated into Spanish and Chinese were offered on request. A total of 266 responses were received and tabulated (see Appendix A7 for the complete survey summary). Most respondents identified themselves as El Cerrito Library users including 22% who said they use the Library an average of at least once a week, 34% more occasional users (1 to 3 times per month) and 28% “a few times per year”. Almost three-fourths (71%) said they use other area libraries, as well. Thirty other libraries were named, with Berkeley, Albany, Kensington and Richmond cited most frequently as alternate library venues visited. The most frequent reasons given for not using the El Cerrito Library (or using additional libraries) were the collection not offering what the person needed, inconvenient open hours, not feeling comfortable or welcome at the Library or poor/inadequate building conditions. Respondents were asked to name three improvements – in their own words - that they considered most important to make at the El Cerrito Library. The comments were analyzed and placed in categories that provided a profile of public perceptions regarding the current library. The most frequently cited needs, each called out by at least 10% of respondents, are shown below. 101 Improved Collection 67 Improved Environment - Lighting, quiet, comfortable 58 Improved Building - Seating, People Space 56 More Space 49 Improved Hours 48 Improved Programming +/or Meeting Room Space 48 Improved Technology 33 Improved Children's Space 27 Improved Parking 8 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- El Cerrito Library Space Needs Assessment Update DRAFT Respondents were also asked to rate various possible building features as ‘very important’, ‘somewhat important’, ‘neutral’ or ‘not important’ to include in a new library. The following list shows the number of respondents who marked each feature as “very important”. Good natural light 181 Flexible space for reading, study and collaboration 163 Quiet reading space 138 Flexible space for special programs and events 127 More electrical outlets for laptop users 120 Better parent/child space 114 Good architectural design 111 Larger/better space for children and families 107 Better/more parking 105 More seats for studying 99 More display/browsing shelves 98 Better noise control/acoustics 94 After school homework/tutoring space 89 A better/larger room for meetings 78 Enclosed group study/collaboration rooms 77 More lounge seats 74 Secure, covered bicycle parking 68 Separate teen area 64 Space for computer training classes 55 A digital lab or makerspace/hackerspace 47 Special space/shelving for El Cerrito history 45 Cafe to buy and consume food/drink at the library 32 Fireplace 10 In a separate question, respondents were asked to rate an array of library services as ‘very important’, ‘somewhat important’, ‘neutral’ or ‘not important’ to offer at the library. The table below shows the number of times respondents indicated that each service was “very important”. More books 182 Free wi-fi 182 Able to ask Library staff for assistance 181 Children’s story times and other events 146 More and/or improved computers 133 Self checkout 107 Current newspapers to browse 102 Literacy tutoring 100 Programs for seniors 100 More e-books 96 Programs for teens 91 Programs for adults 90 More DVDs 78 Easier pick up for self service holds 75 Magazines to browse 74 More audiobooks 71 9 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- El Cerrito Library Space Needs Assessment Update DRAFT Computer training classes 66 Exhibits of art by the community 66 Laptops or tablets to use at the library 49 More music CDs 33 Video game equipment 2 Community Input Findings El Cerrito residents have been asked twice in the past decade to express themselves on what they want in the way of library service, in 2005/06 and in 2013. The picture that emerges from their responses shows enduring demand for traditional services, a strong sense of the value that a library brings to the community as well as awareness of and interest in innovative possibilities. Community input from teens, parents, seniors and the general public focused on a handful of important themes: • Access to a larger, more robust collection • A welcoming, comfortable physical environment that supports varied uses and activity levels • An attractive building that fosters a sense of community and offers plenty of room for visitors and a “sense of place”. • Space for meetings and community events • Space for families and children • Space for teens, both for study and for ‘hanging out’ • Increased computer access and infrastructure to accommodate personal technology • Increased service hours • Convenient access for all residents including plentiful parking and good public transportation These themes echo comments made during the original needs assessment and reflect enduring community desires and values. They are also in sync with current trends in library service, with an emphasis on “the library as place” even as digital technologies are incorporated into every aspect of service. The findings repeat trends noted in the 2006 Needs Assessment, that El Cerrito includes many intellectually active, literate residents who use library services regularly and respond improved or expanded services. Other enduring usage patterns suggest that the Library is not meeting community needs. Almost 75% of survey respondents use other libraries in the area. In and of itself, this is not a negative. Ours is a mobile society and many people travel regularly on a regional basis to school, work, entertainment and other venues. The reasons people give for multiple library usage, however, suggest widespread dissatisfaction with the El Cerrito Library. The most prominent causes given were poor or inadequate building conditions, inadequate collections, lack of space and parking limitations, expressed both by survey respondents and focus group participants. El Cerrito residents value both traditional and new services. This dual emphasis is clearly illustrated by the two highest rated “most important services” in the survey – “more books” and “free wi-fi” – each of which received 182 votes. Richer, more varied collections in any and all formats were, in fact, the most requested service overall. Community members include many readers, expressing considerable interest in ebooks and other digital content complemented by 10 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- El Cerrito Library Space Needs Assessment Update DRAFT strong interest in print materials. While many people are satisfied, active users of the County Library interlibrary request service, there was widespread desire for a viable onsite browsing collection. Parents were especially vocal about the need for a critical mass of children’s titles available locally for family browsing. The community wants a library building that offers not only an attractive, well developed collection but also a facility that is comfortable, spacious and flexible. Increased seating and spaces for people surfaced repeatedly in a variety of ways – quiet reading space, flexible space for reading, study and collaboration, better parent/child space, more and improved space for children and families, enclosed group study and collaboration rooms, separate teen area. This idea was developed and enlarged to emphasize the desire for separate, dedicated and appropriately outfitted meeting room and programming space, replacing the current practice of holding programs in the Library’s main public area. More broadly, there were numerous comments about the need for a community gathering space and focal point, perceiving the new library as a civic venue that can help improve a sense of community. 11 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- El Cerrito Library Space Needs Assessment Update DRAFT 5. El Cerrito Library Service Levels and Trends Even with its limitations, the community still uses the El Cerrito Library. Last year, the Library had 128,370 visits, over 500 people each day the facility was open. This represents a 57% increase over the past ten years and a 20% increase from 2005/06, the year of the original needs assessment. Last year, 174,411 books and media were checked out from the El Cerrito Library, almost double the circulation ten years ago and a 35% increase over the 2005/06 annual circulation. The surge in use since 2005/06 is particularly noteworthy since the Library’s hours and staffing have remained at the same, minimal levels. In addition the onsite collection has become somewhat smaller, at 35,975 books and AV media compared to 37,062 items in 2005/06. Several factors are behind these increases: • Demand for children’s services has taken off in response to the Library’s energetic expansion of programming for children. Attendance at children’s programs has grown from 2,000 two years ago to an anticipated 5,000 this year. With more families visiting the Library, children’s circulation has grown 43% since 2005/06, from 50,178 to 71,921 checkouts in 2012/13. • The entire collection has been refreshed, non-circulating material reduced significantly and shelving made more browsable. • AV media now “floats” through the County Library system so that a fresh selection of DVDs, audiobooks and CDs is constantly available. • A powerful interlibrary borrowing network is now in place that offers the public quick, convenient access to millions of books and media titles through the Library website. The collections in highest demand are DVDs, which turn over between 12 and 17 times annually4, a rate that indicates that much of the collection is in circulation most of the time. New books (for adults, teens and children) are the next most popular category; in 2012/13, adult and children’s new books had the same turnover rate – 14 – and teen new books followed closely at 9. Turnover for the regular collection is significantly lower, suggesting that many visitors limit their borrowing to the new book and media shelves. The overall turnover rate nonetheless has improved considerably since 2005/06, increasing from 3.1 to 4.8, in response to the service improvements mentioned above and to the energy and innovative spirit of the staff. El Cerrito library card holders continue to use other County Library outlets as well as other public libraries in the region. Last year, 55% of items checked out by El Cerrito residents were checked out at the El Cerrito Library, 14% at Kensington and smaller percentages at 13 other County Library branches. Last year, the Library sponsored 221 public programs, 144 for children and families, 64 for adults and 13 for teens, with a combined total of 5,895 participants. All programs took place in the open public space. 4 Turnover rate refers to the average number of times each item in a collection is checked out during the year. 12 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- El Cerrito Library Space Needs Assessment Update DRAFT 6. Needs Assessment Findings and Recommendations Overview and Service Level Recommendations The review of El Cerrito’s library space needs just completed confirms the findings of the 2006 Needs Assessment. The current 6,500 square-foot facility is too small and too limited to serve the community. Approximately three times more space, designed for flexibility and technology integration, continues to be the basic, underlying need. A facility that offers approximately 20,845 square feet is recommended for El Cerrito to meet both current and projected library services through at least 2030. Although the overall building size recommended is very close to the findings of the 2006 Needs Assessment, numerous adjustments are proposed to the use of space and square footage allocations within the building. These reflect 1) evolving service trends in libraries, 2) shifting service priorities expressed through fresh community input and 3) updated community demographics. The table below lines out the original and updated recommendations and compares them to current service levels and current library industry best planning practice. The rationale behind each recommendation update follows. CURRENT LEVELS CURRENT BEST PRACTICE 2014 RECOMMENDATIONS 2006 RECOMMENDATIONS Population served 23,900 in 2013 25,600 in 2030 25,000 in 2030 Books + AV Media Physical collection 35,975 51,200 to 64,000 60,300 75,700 1.5 volumes/capita 2.0 to 2.5 volumes/capita 2.4 volumes/capita 3.0 volumes/capita (for multi-outlet regional libraries; stand-alone city libraries often higher) 68% increase Digital collection 20,050 items owned/leased TBD NA includes ebooks, e-audiobooks + e-govt documents varies widely; no best practice yet determined anticipate increased access to downloadable content thru ownership + leasing Seating Open Access 86 seats 103 to 154 seats 134 seats 126 seats 3.4 seats/1,000 people 4 to 6+ seats/1,000 people 5.2 seats/1,000 people 5.0 seats/1,000 people 59% increase Group Study/ Collaboration/ Tutoring seats 0 seats 24 to 48 seats 56 seats in 6 rooms 30 seats in 4 rooms Overall Seating 86 seats 128 to 180 seats 190 seats 156 seats 3.4 seats/1,000 people 5 to 7+ seats/1,000 people 7.4 seats/1,000 people 6.1 seats/1,000 people 120% increase 13 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- El Cerrito Library Space Needs Assessment Update DRAFT Programming seats Community meeting room 0 seats 100 to175+ seats 125 seats (dividable space) 100 seats Children's programming 0 seats 30 to 60+ seats 40 floor seats 30 seats use open access public space Public computers 8 workstations 50 to 75 workstations 66 workstations 54 workstations 0.33 computer/1,000 people 2 to 3 workstations/1,000 people 2.6 computers/1,000 people 2.2 computers/1,000 people 36 Internet access desktops 48 Internet access desktops 24 laptops +/or tablets (12 in computer lab) 12 laptops for workshops 6 online catalogs 6 special use workstations 6 online catalogs 700% increase Square Feet of Building Space 6,500 SF 19,200 to 21,750 SF 20,845 SF 21,626 SF 0.27 SF/capita 0.75 to 0.85+ SF/capita 0.81 SF/capita 0.87 SF/capita Collection Shelving While the 2006 Needs Assessment’s high profile browsing and display area for new books and AV media remains valid, the concept of browsable, easily accessible collections has continued to develop and expand. The distinction between “new books” and “stacks” has been blurred in many libraries, favoring lower overall shelving heights, face-out display peppered throughout the collection and even a migration (usually partial but sometimes total) away from traditional classification systems to a more topical, “bookstore-like” arrangement. Typically, adult shelving is between 66” and 84” inches high (compared to the 90” high shelves considered standard and proposed in 2006). In short, the ideal is to make the entire collection browsable, with the result that shelving occupies more floor space. Collection Size A significantly larger collection of books and media is still needed onsite to provide residents with a critical mass of titles on hand to browse and check out. This is especially important for children and families, teens and individuals whose native language is not English. Many adult residents who are native English language speakers also want and need a more robust selection of current fiction and nonfiction to browse, even though this group is more likely to use digital ereaders. The new target will enable expansion in all categories. Electronic content – ebooks, e-audiobooks, and ereaders – was anticipated but not yet a reality for most libraries in 2006. Publishers, booksellers and libraries were feeling their way into this new world but many questions remained about licensing, digital rights management, and related topics. Recommendations about target collection size, therefore, did not factor in this material. While econtent continues to present many thorny questions, the Library now does offer over 20,000 ebook titles, the public is eagerly exploring this medium and the County Library is committed to developing its collection. Also, interlibrary borrowing has become increasingly sophisticated and easy for the public to use over the past few years, providing quick, convenient 14 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- El Cerrito Library Space Needs Assessment Update DRAFT access to millions of books and AV media via the Link+ system. Many El Cerrito Library users are adept users of this service. Finally, some formats, such as music CDs, can be offered more selectively because of wide availability of downloadable material. These factors suggest that the previous recommended onsite collection size of 3.0 volumes per capita can be reduced to a more modest 2.4 volumes per capita. The onsite collection of books and AV media should be increased from the current 35,975 items to 60,320 items, which represents close to a 70% increase from the 1.5 volumes/capita currently offered – resulting in an onsite collection in the midrange of current best practice. Appendix B3: Collection Growth Plan summarizes a hypothetical allocation of the proposed collection and Appendix B4: Collection and Shelving Needs shows the types of shelving proposed for each part of the collection as well as the other variables that affect the amount of square footage assigned. UPPER LEFT: Willow Glen Branch, San Jose UPPER RIGHT: Willow Glen Branch, San Jose LOWER EFT: Fairfield Library, Solano County LOWER RIGHT: Portola Valley Library, San Mateo County 15 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- El Cerrito Library Space Needs Assessment Update DRAFT Public Computer Access Demand for computers and Internet access continues to be a primary service need in El Cerrito. The desktop workstations now available cannot begin to match community demand. Community input on this issue is underscored by daily evidence at the Library of queuing and frustration at wait times. At the same time, developments in mobile computing technology have made it possible for libraries to offer a mix of desktop units and less expensive, more flexible laptop devices. This enables more seating flexibility, also, as simple reading tables become effective computer workstations as long as wifi access and ubiquitous plug-in capability are made available. Library visitors have discovered library wifi access in ever-growing numbers over the past few years. Many visitors now use their own laptops, tablets, smartphones and ereaders throughout most libraries, including in El Cerrito, quietly at work on business plans, school assignments, checking email or a multitude of other activities. This growing trend both lessens the need for as many Library-owned computers and puts additional pressure on seating. While a major increase in computer access is still proposed, the recommendation has been updated to include a combination of standard desktop PCs and portable computing devices – from the current 8 workstations (0.33 computers/1,000 people) to 66 workstations (2.6 computers/1,000 people). The breakdown of desktops to laptops (or tablets – depending on the preferred device by the time the new library becomes a reality) includes 36 standard desktop units, 6 specialty workstations with additional features that support group projects and content creation, 6 online public access catalogs, 24 laptops for in-library checkout and 12 laptops for training workshops. These quantities can be refined and adjusted as planning for the new library goes forward. The proposed space-by-space allocation of computers is detailed in Appendix B6: Computers and other Equipment Needs. Library-owned portable devices are proposed for in- library checkout at the Service Desk and also for use by participants in workshops held in a Computer Learning + Collaboration space. A basic design goal should be to integrate technology use throughout the public space rather than require visitors who wish to use a Library computer, with the exception of a secure space for specialty equipment. Desktop computers need to be located where people need them – in adult, teen and children’s spaces as well as the literacy and tutoring areas. LEFT: Vineland Branch, San Jose RIGHT: Portola Branch, San Francisco 16 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- El Cerrito Library Space Needs Assessment Update DRAFT Seating More and better space for people was a primary space need at the El Cerrito Library in 2006 and continues to be an overarching need today. Ample seating capacity, zoned by activity and acoustical level - quiet ‘oasis’ space for comfortable reading, study tables for concentrated solo work, parent/child seating, casual interactive seating, enclosed group use space – is arguably the most important element in a successful library today. This trend reflects broad public recognition that the Library is a community gathering place and crossroads. Space for children and families, teens, laptop users, adult readers and browsers all need to be accommodated within the building envelope, in appropriately sized spaces that offer acoustical separation. Collaboration space and space for group study of all sorts as well as tutoring is badly needed. While the Library has actually added more seats than were available in 2006 (86 now rather than 70), many of these are clustered in tight areas with no allowance for personal comfort or space. The original seating recommendation of 156 seats, including 126 open access seats, three group study and tutoring rooms (with 18 seats total) and a 12-seat homework study area has been updated to address community demand more realistically. The revised seating recommendation includes 134 open access seats, four group study/collaboration rooms (with 20 seats total) and a 28-seat tutoring/study/homework space. The overall seating capacity has been updated to 190 seats – 7.4 seats per 1,000 people served – a capacity that will enable the Library to sustain high visit levels from students as well as the general public. Designated seating for teens, families and students has been augmented in recognition of the high usage levels anticipated by these user groups while seating targeted for adults remains substantial – at 72 seats. Overall, the seating capacity assumes visits of longer duration, for multiple purposes and increasing use by families and small groups. Appendix B5: Public Seating Needs outlines the proposed seating distribution with details on the types of chairs – at tables, laptop work counter, parent/chair armchairs, toddler tables, lounge seats etc. In addition, Appendix B2: Detailed Spaces Summary calls out the seating within each proposed space. LEFT: Portola Valley Branch, San Mateo County CENTER: San Francisco State University RIGHT: Redwood Shores Branch, Redwood City 17 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- El Cerrito Library Space Needs Assessment Update DRAFT Programming and Meeting Room Space The 2006 report called for a dedicated, enclosed, multipurpose meeting room, accessible from the building lobby to allow events to take place independent of Library open hours and to allow attendee access without intruding into the Library public space. This need is still valid - many community members commented on the importance of such a space not only for Library sponsored programs but also for community events. Increasing the seating capacity from the original proposal’s recommended 100 seats to 125, at minimum, should be considered given the pervasive community interest in programming for families, for adults and for teens. This will position the new Library more effectively as an active community hub. This role is closely associated with the trend already described – the Library as a community gathering place. The meeting room needs to be carefully designed and outfitted to support AV and digital presentations and wifi access, with a refreshment prep kitchen and adequate storage for folding tables and stacking or nesting chairs. Children’s programs can take place in the meeting room; in fact, events that draw large audiences will work best in that space. A secondary programming space for smaller children’s programs is also needed, to provide a space within the children’s area for more intimate events that benefit from adjacency to the picture book collection or the Family Space. This space also needs acoustical separation from the open public space. In 2006, a story time/class visit space was recommended that would accommodate up to 30 children and adults. This capacity should also be updated to accommodate 40, in response to the positive community response to the current Library children’s programming. LEFT: Belmont Library, San Mateo County RIGHT: Redwood Shores Branch, Redwood City 18 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- El Cerrito Library Space Needs Assessment Update DRAFT Service Delivery Strategies and Service Points The assumptions made in 2006 about Library staffing and service delivery are still valid. The building must operate with minimal staff based at a single service desk that is highly visible and efficiently organized. Staff will be mobile, responsive and active throughout the public space, helping where needed. Self-service technology is now standard at County Library facilities and is integral to best planning practice. Returned materials will be checked in and sorted behind the scenes using automated technology to eliminate confusion at the service point and improve efficiency. Visitors will be able to retrieve their holds without staff mediation, check out and renew items at self-checkout devices, return materials to automated materials handling system, book a group study room, register for a new library card, update their account, pay fines, among other things. The spaces associated with these services were reviewed and updated as needed and generic components called out, as appropriate, to accommodate up-to-date equipment when the new Library is constructed and occupied. UPPER LEFT: Columbus Metropolitan Library Columbus, Ohio UPPER RIGHT: Millbrae Library San Mateo County LOWER LEFT: Covington Library King County, Washington 19 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- El Cerrito Library Space Needs Assessment Update DRAFT Partnerships and Joint-Use Facilities Many new libraries are being designed to support partnerships with other service providers. These designs range from including generic learning or classroom space within the library to imbedding the library within a larger, shared-use complex to pairing the library with another service, such as a community center, with selected joint-use functions. Common to each is the desire to leverage community resources and offer residents access to service in as convenient a way as possible. Service partnerships are also implicit manifestations of the idea of the library as a part of the community’s civic life. Examples of creative, successful partnerships abound – Oakland’s Cesar E. Chavez Library at the Fruitvale Transit Village, the Lafayette Library and Learning Center, San Francisco’s Mission Bay and Glen Park Branches, the Sacramento Robbie Waters Pocket-Greenhaven Branch, co- located with the School of Engineering & Sciences, a STEM magnet school and Palo Alto’s Mitchell Park Branch, currently under construction, is a shared-use facility with a City-operated Youth Recreation Center. El Cerrito’s new library can operate either as a stand-alone facility or in a campus setting, sharing functions with collaborating organizations. In addition, the tutoring and afterschool homework space as well as the computer learning space are potential venues for service collaborations between the Library, the City and the West Contra Costa County Unified School District. As the new library planning proceeds, the City and the Library need to explore possible joint efforts and design space into the building that supports those possibilities. LEFT: 81st Avenue Branch, Oakland, collocated with two schools RIGHT: Redwood Shores Branch, Redwood City, with an interpretative nature center 20 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- El Cerrito Library Space Needs Assessment Update DRAFT Amenities The Library as a center of community life and community focal point is a burgeoning national trend, increasing demand for seating and space for people in almost every community. As this trend has developed, public expectations regarding accompanying services such as retail space, food and drink services and exhibits and displays have also grown. The community input received as part of the update process certainly reflected this expectation, with frequent comments supporting a café-like feature, especially if the new Library is located away from commercial areas of the City. In addition, conversations with the leadership of the Friends of the Library revealed that the scope of the used book sale operation has expanded in the intervening years to now include online sales as well as both periodic large scale book sales and an ongoing book sale within the Library. The Friends are interested in expanding the ongoing book sale to a permanent browsing and display area adjacent to the lobby. The update took a fresh look at the amenities offered in 2006, resulting in an expansion of this aspect of the Library. A high-profile, clearly defined “bookstore” space of approximately 170 square feet is recommended in which books, media and other items received as donations can be displayed for browsing and purchase, managed and sorted by the Friends. A second space, secure and convenient to the “store” is also recommended for donation sorting and online sales processing. In addition, a space for food and drink sales is recommended directly off the lobby – approximately 300 square feet should be earmarked to accommodate this service, with decisions about the nature and extent of the service deferred until the City has time to research the best option, an actual small café, a coffee cart or self-service vending machines. In any case, that space needs casual seating and a laptop counter as well as space for refreshments display and sales. There are numerous successful models for this type of operation available to study at libraries across the country. At this point, the recommendation is to save space for the possibility. LEFT: Willow Glen Branch, San Jose RIGHT: Willow Glen Branch, San Jose 21 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- El Cerrito Library Space Needs Assessment Update DRAFT Building Size The total amount of building square footage recommended is 20,845 SF, less than the 2006 recommendation at 21,626 SF. A building of this size will offer each resident 0.81 square feet of space – an overall service level that places the new library solidly within the current range of best planning practice. Appendix B1: Space Needs Summary and Appendix B2: Detailed Spaces Summary provide details on the proposed spaces and their contents. This recommendation assumes, as did the earlier analysis, that the building is a one-story, well- designed and well-organized facility that is 75% efficient. This means that three-quarters of the total square footage is devoted to library services and functions and the remaining one-quarter consists of other necessary functions, including restrooms, mechanical spaces, corridors, lobbies, walls and similar building elements. 22 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- 354 Los Palmos Drive T [PHONE REDACTED] San Francisco, CA 94127 C [PHONE REDACTED] APPENDIX A1 El Cerrito Library City of El Cerrito/School Principals and Afterschool Care Coordinators 10/3/13 On October 3rd, Kathy attended a meeting between El Cerrito school principals, afterschool care staff and City Parks and Rec staff, convened by Karen Pinkos, Assistant City Manager. City and schools have held these meetings periodically for the past 3 years to discuss issues of mutual concern, including afterschool care coordination and security. Principals from the high school, junior high and three elementary schools attended as well as afterschool care staff and City Rec and Park staff. Kathy was able to ask the group to comment on how the new library could and should serve students and their families. Input is summarized below. • Students represent a wide range socio-economically – very diverse – there is a gap in achievement • Students love anything related to technology • Many students have smart phones and this is their only access to Internet, online world • Some have additional tech access available at home • Increasing School District interest in providing access to ebook content. Would be good if the public library supported this by offering ebooks for kids. • School District is also starting to focus on “leveled libraries”, that is, encouraging independent reading identified by reading level. Would be helpful to have public library books identified by this coding system (there have been multiple coding systems used – would need to offer “translation” from one to another – the District can help with this) • No El Cerrito schools offer laptops or tablets for student use at this time, though it is part of the District’s long term plan – lack of money is currently an issue. • Discussion followed on current reports of LAUSD’s troubles implementing a laptop/tablet program. Disdain expressed for LA’s strategy to rescind loan to students until tablets are made hack–proof, saying that student “hacking shows creativity and ingenuity and the situation could be used to teach “media responsibility” to students El Cerrito schools have been in transition for several years. Since 2004/05, Castro School has been closed, its students reassigned to other EC elementary schools. Portola Middle School’s 6th graders are also reassigned to elementary schools. Portola is supposed to reopen in 18 months. The High School is now operating on beautiful nice new campus – almost all portable trailers are gone. DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- Ways the new library could help students: • Space for afterschool homework help – this program is managed by the City for the District. Needs more space. City and District personnel could manage the programs, need appropriate space. • Enclosed group study, tutoring space – maybe older teens could tutor younger • Students need enclosed space for small and medium size groups – space to talk! • Also space for parents to wait while their kids are being tutored • Coffee shop? Café? (reference made to new Lafayette Library as successful example, also mentions the Lafayette book store – would attract families) • Need a college prep section for HS students – scholarship opportunities, how to apply for college, also programs and workshops for parents as well as students • Have ongoing publicity about Library programs and events – Library Website? Marquee? • For younger kids, avoid upholstered FFE – head lice a problem in daycare centers! • Library must be convenient to AC transit – parents need to know their kids will be able to safely catch a bus to get home. And kids will not visit unless it is convenient to get there – plan on at least 1 bus pickup every hour. • Library must reflect the community diversity in many ways – collections, displays, programming, interior finishes and décor – must be inclusive School libraries – are they operative? Effective? • High School and Middle School both have librarians and libraries that are open, HS even open after school 2 days a week – very popular. • Elementary schools – libraries open 1 day/week, staffed that day by clerks, not credentialed teachers. Mostly parent volunteers make them happen. Dark most of the time. • The Public Library can complement and expand access provided at the school libraries. DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- 354 Los Palmos Drive T [PHONE REDACTED] San Francisco, CA 94127 C [PHONE REDACTED] APPENDIX A2 El Cerrito Library Focus Group - Friends of the Library 10/8/13 Kathy Page conducted the session. Ten FOL members participated. Kathy distributed notes from the meeting she and the Friends held in December 2005 and asked whether or not the organization’s activities have changed since then. The current activities described are: • Two major on-site sales per year held in the Library basement. • Ongoing online sales on Amazon – has been quite successful in bringing in new revenues. • A small (book cart) ongoing sale in the Library central space. • Funding support for the New Library Committee. • Funding of Library collections and special furniture requests. • Annual membership meeting – 40 to 50 attendees. Donations are received at the basement door on an ongoing basis, sorted and stored in the basement until the next book sale. Volunteers who manage the online sales can either work in the basement, which is equipped with a computer for their use, or in their own homes. Used Book Store – the Friends would like the new Library to have dedicated space close to and visible from the public lobby for an ongoing on-site book store. Like the current book cart sale, it would need to be self-service, with a secure payment box. Opinion varied on the location of the sorting and processing space – some could see a combined sales and sorting space, similar to the Mill Valley Library. Others preferred separation with the sorting space closed off from public access. The group discussed the pros and cons of associating the book store with a café concession located next to the lobby. Some participants voiced concern over introducing food and drink into the Library. Kathy shared her observations on how various libraries have successfully managed this amenity. Kathy then asked the group to share their ideas about features or services that are needed in the new library: A big meeting room – comments on management of bookings – what is best strategy? Liz Ruhland mentioned that the City may handle booking, with the Library’s programs given first priority. Small meeting rooms – for tutoring, need as many as possible (mentioned popularity of Albany’s small meeting rooks) DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- Service desk with a counter low enough to welcome children Teens – one participant offered the Chicago PL You Media center as a possible model Acoustics – good sound absorption Fireplace? Participants were split on the benefit of this feature – Grace McNeil mentioned that the fireplace in the current library used to be operable, burning actual wood. It is now decorative only. Comfortable seating for using the wifi with your laptop. Needs to be a green building – low flush toilets, permeable pavers in the parking lot and other sustainable features – this is a high priority for the community. Comfortable browsing access to the collection, with wide aisles, ADA accessible. Lighting – avoid glare, indirect light, clerestory windows. More plentiful parking - ! – especially if it is a joint-use facility. The group discussed the current problems related to parking, given the adjacency of the senior center and Fairmont School. Parking space for strollers during story time programs. Windows to the exterior - views to the outside. More public computers. Laptop plug-in access everywhere! All participants have computer at home. Two use ebooks (1 Nook and 1 Kindle) – enjoy them now that they have learned how to use. See ebooks as important, especially for the younger generations. Most participants request print books, too, and DVDS using the Library catalog – generally request and then pick up. Some use Link+. High kudos for the request system – very fast and efficient. Not a lot of comment on lack of material for immediate browsing. The notes from the 2005 still contain lots of valid information! Would like to see the Library help people find governmental help available – with Affordable Care Act, etc. Would like to see the Library provide a safe after-school place for students, for homework study. Liz commented that community demographic trends is showing highest growth in the 0 – 5 year age range, which means there will be lots of teens in a few years! Someone commented that anecdotally, more families with children are moving in – pay attention to the future. DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- 354 Los Palmos Drive T [PHONE REDACTED] San Francisco, CA 94127 C [PHONE REDACTED] APPENDIX A3 El Cerrito Library Focus Group – Parents of School Age Children 10/14/13 Kathy spoke with 5 parents while their kids participated in a story time program at the Library. 1. What ages are your children? 3 – 3 years old (including a pair of twins) 2 – 4 years old 1 – 5 years old 2 – 6 years old 2. How long have you been El Cerrito residents? 2 - since 2005 (8 years) 1 – since 2007 (6 years) 2 – since 2008 (5 years) 3. How do you use the Library? What services do you use? Bring our kids to story time (our caregiver brings them during the day, we bring them to the evening program) Check out DVDS and watch movies together Check out books – some use only the print collections, other use all formats – print, ebooks, audio books We get children’s books from several libraries – Albany, Berkeley, Oakland (Golden Gate Valley) – we read a lot! Use self check-out – kids love it! I used to study here, too, before I went to work We check out print books only – “the old fashioned kind”! – and CDs (music) 4. What library services, features and spaces are most important to you personally and to your family? What will make the new library in El Cerrito successful for you and your family? What sort of experience should the new library offer visitors? What qualities should the library have – over and above specific services or collections? The family story times are very important – with an ongoing relationship between the storyteller and the kids. Erica does a great job with that. DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- Availability of books is most critical – sometimes experience long waiting lists for books on reserve, especially the high demand titles Would like more activities for kids – we love the story times. Beef up the selection of DVDs – most are older and we have watched them all That goes for the children’s book collection, too – we would like to have a larger selection to choose from – we have to visit several libraries just to get access to more titles Provide small enclosed rooms for study, like Albany Library Audiobooks – also could use a larger selection More carpeted, comfortable space for parents and young children to read together. We like the space at Golden Gate Valley – carpeted and cozy. This library does not have a comfy space for families – all hard surfaces. 5. Do you have any other comments about the new library that we haven’t talked about yet? Include a large function room – again, similar to Albany which has a separate space for programs. More modern building Perhaps bookable/rentable spaces for families – for birthday parties and such – so we can have a choice other than Chuck E. Cheese, something less commercial. More open hours in the evening so we can get to the library more after I get home from work. My kids attend Fairmont School – have to wait till 6 pm to pick them up, then go home for dinner. Tuesday is the only night the library is open late enough for us to come. Kudos to Erica (children’s librarian) - ! – she has really elevated the Library’s programming More publicity about Library events – we didn’t know till our caregiver told us about the story times. A good graphic novel collection (for me, not my kids – this from a Dad). DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- 354 Los Palmos Drive T [PHONE REDACTED] San Francisco, CA 94127 C [PHONE REDACTED] APPENDIX A4 El Cerrito Community Meeting 10/24/13 El Cerrito City Hall Kathy Page presented a slideshow of current library service and design trends and then led approximately 30 meeting participants in a discussion about the proposed new library. Liz Ruhland recorded the discussion. 1. How can and should the new library facility best serve the community? What roles should it play in the life of the community? • Should be multicultural – reflect ALL residents including those native to other countries – Asian, Spanish speakers and others. A larger collection of materials in the languages spoken by these residents is very important. Also, bilingual storytelling programs are needed to draw in these families. • Provide community meeting rooms. Lounge area, group study • Accessible in all areas of the library, including the meeting rooms. • Laptop plug-in outlets everywhere and ample laptop seating. • A larger collection of real, print books. The library collection should be like Cody’s Books, not Barnes & Noble. • Make sure to research the demographic makeup of the community – just who are we planning for? Look at current and projected demographics. • El Cerrito has the highest Asian pop in Contra Costa County and the highest number of same sex couples – make sure the Library services and collections reflect this. • Can have both/and digital and print books. • Lend more types of materials – e.g., tools, seeds for native plants • Explore partnerships with community groups to expand range of services. • The Library should be a hub of sharing DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- Include future technology accommodation in the design – plentiful conduit space perhaps rather than drop down conduit. (KP = “Future proof the building” – plan it for future flexibility) 2. What features or services should the new library offer? What would make it a place that you and your family would enjoy visiting? What qualities ought the building and its spaces have? A functional library designed by an architectural firm that knows libraries – that has talked with the library staff to find out what works and what doesn’t. Think of traffic flow within the building, be practical. Improve the interlibrary delivery system so that requested items arrive sooner, including delivery direct to the home Raise awareness of available service – publicize! Meeting room should have easily understandable AV setup, so staff can use it and can show the public how to use. Better self-check – more intuitive (I haven’t been able to successfully use any of the units in various nearby libraries, always have to get staff help). Make sure the self service return unit prints receipts for what you have dropped off. Increased services and resources for children (this was a major priority at the County Library Town Hall meeting in September and should not be overlooked). Quiet rooms Small group study rooms A place for after-school homework and tutoring Adult literacy space that provides confidentiality for students Bilingual books for children The entrance should be grand – exciting – inviting! Welcoming to everyone into the building. Maybe have an atrium. Comment: the Cerritos Library in southern California has a great entrance, with a huge aquarium at the entrance to the children’s space. Collections should be more tailored to the local population The interior décor should be colorful – not institutional like the current building – provide a vibrant, inspiring color palette Good natural lighting and outdoor seating. This would work well in El Cerrito as long as attention is paid to overhead protection DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- Effective climate control – AC if necessary (several people disagreed that this was necessary in El Cerrito). Windows that open Parking? Enough spaces! (unlike current situation) Locate the library near public transit Provide secure, ample bike parking – making bicycle transit easy is a City priority And stroller parking inside during children’s programs! Programming space should be multipurpose, with spaces that accommodate readings, musical performances A more extensive used book sale will be good – with actual shelving, not on a book cart. Café, especially if the Library is not located close to retail shops Keep the library space on 1 floor for functionality (another person asked to not rule out multiple floors. Cited exemplary libraries in Minneapolis and elsewhere that are on multiple levels) Provide effective, ergonomic staff work space, unlike existing building! (from a Library volunteer) Post-meeting comments: Design as open plan space with flexibility for the long haul Use Walnut Creek’s new library as a model: minimal interior walls, zoning of spaces, sound control Provide an emergency generator in the event of local/regional emergencies, so Library can serve as a community center and gathering spot. DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- 354 Los Palmos Drive T [PHONE REDACTED] San Francisco, CA 94127 C [PHONE REDACTED] APPENDIX A5 El Cerrito Library Focus Group - Adult School Class, Fairmont School 10/29/13 13 adult students participated, ages between 35 – 70, 11 women and 2 men, plus the class teacher, Alison Goodsill. Kathy Page conducted the session and Liz Ruhland recorded the discussion. Group profile: • 10 live in El Cerrito (others reside in San Pablo, Pinole and Albany). • 4 have children under 18 living at home; several others have grown children. • 8 have library cards. • 8 reported that they use the El Cerrito Library, but several indicated “not often”. • 6 - 7 live within walking distance of the existing library, 3 drive to class, 1 takes the bus (from Pinole). • 5 – 6 said they have computer access at home (several held iPads or ereaders). • Use their computers and digital devices to view movies, look at and organize photos, read the news, access online dictionary 1. Which library services do you use? • Check out books, videos (2 reported they use Chinese books at El Cerrito Library) • Bring children to story time • Read Chinese language newspaper 2. Which languages do you speak and read besides English? • Chinese (Mandarin – several, and Cantonese • Farsi • Spanish • Vietnamese • Arabic 3. What services or features would you like to see at the new El Cerrito Library? What would make it a place you would like to come to? • Bilingual story times • More Chinese language material – collection is very small, get new material DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- • Enough chairs • Quiet space for reading and study • Café • Homework help for children • Ditto for children with special needs (one student has a daughter with special needs who needs more homework help than she can provide) • Larger selection of English language books and DVDs, too – e.g., books on making art • Job and career workshops 4. Other questions: How about computer classes – how to use technology? 5 – 6 indicated this might bring them to the library How about ESL conversational classes? The Library currently offers these with a volunteer leader. Several said they would be interested but not during the evening – daytime better. DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- 354 Los Palmos Drive T [PHONE REDACTED] San Francisco, CA 94127 C [PHONE REDACTED] APPENDIX A6 El Cerrito Library Focus Group - Students at El Cerrito High School 11/7/13 Kathy Page and Liz Ruhland met with 20 students in the Media Class taught by Corey Mason. The group responded to several discussion questions and completed a brief priority exercise/survey regarding library services important to teens. 1. Does anyone use the public library currently? • 5 students reported that they are El Cerrito Library users. 2. Do you use other libraries? Which one/s? • Other libraries used: Richmond (several), Hercules, Pinole, Berkeley, Oakland, Albany 3. If you are a library user, how do you use it? What services do you use? • Study space, nonfiction books for homework 4. Where is your favorite place to study? Why? • Several responded: “my room,” because it’s comfortable 5. What would make the El Cerrito Library a place you would be likely to visit? What services or features or spaces would draw you there? • Tutors • Computers • Place to study with: no noise or distractions, not cluttered, space, allows eating, good light • …but also a hang out place, to talk and “break the rules” [implied the rules against noise] • Books for teens • Quiet area • Wifi • Computers and places to plug-in • Café with a microwave DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- 6. Do you need to group projects? If so, where do you meet to do this? • When working in groups, do so at home or at school. Many group assignments are completed in class. 7. Do you have your own computer at home? How many have a laptop? If not, what computer access do you have? How could the library help you in terms of technology access? • Almost everyone reported they have access to a computer at home, most have their own, some laptops, some desktops 8. Does anybody read for fun? If so, what do you like to read? Do you find what you like to read at the Library? If not, where do you find it? • 4 students read for pleasure, “when I have time.” They read: fiction, mysteries, “adventure,” realistic, and biographies. 9. Should the library offer music or video media for teens to check out, or is this irrelevant with downloading access? They mostly reported downloading their music, from iTunes or elsewhere. “Library not a good place for learning about new music: underground bands, underground rappers, or local music”. One person was interested in the idea that the library could offer new, local groups whose music isn’t generally available – thought it sounded like a neat service. 10. If the library offered programs and events for teens, would you be interested in participating? Examples = movies and pizza night, video gaming nights, poetry slams This idea generated a lot of interest with several games mentioned as particularly appealing. Kathy asked them to include titles of specific games on their survey forms. • Expressed a great interest in gaming tournaments with lots of popular games so people could choose. • Pajama movie night, all ages. • Book club for teens • Poetry slam 11. Questions? Comments? Thoughts on location: current location on Stockton is good because they can walk to it from school – they felt this would be crucial for teens. When asked about the Portola site, were quite sanguine about the walking distance there. Expressed that it would not be a deterrent. Publicity: best way to reach high school student would be through flyers, the school radio station, e-tree (mostly just their parents read it, but share items of interest with some of the students). Print announcements posted at ECHS would get people’s attention. DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- Service Priorities for Teens 12 students completed the library services priorities questionnaire, each marking the six services they believe are most important for teens. The results are shown below. 10 Separate space for teens where talking is OK 9 A place to buy and eat snacks and drinks 7 Computers to search the Internet 7 Comfortable lounge chairs 7 Group study rooms to work together with other students 6 Places to plug in laptop computers and other digital devices 5 Plenty of study seating 5 Digital workshop with special technology for making films, music and other creative projects 4 Computers for word processing and other software applications, such as: 4 Library programs for teens (poetry slams, video gane nights, film nights) 4 Nonfiction books for research and study 4 DVDs and videos 3 Fiction books for teens 3 Books and media in languages other than English 3 Magazines for teens 3 Music CDs 2 Career prep books Comments: Video games to provide: Call of Duty Ghosts, Madden 25, NBA 2K 14 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- 354 Los Palmos Drive T [PHONE REDACTED] San Francisco, CA 94127 C [PHONE REDACTED] APPENDIX A7 El Cerrito Library Community Survey Response Summary The City conducted a community survey in late September through mid-November 2013 to elicit input on current library usage patterns, service experience and service priorities. The survey was posted electronically via the City and Library websites. Print copies were distributed at the El Cerrito Library, as well, and translations into Spanish or other languages were publicized. A total of 266 survey responses were received. A summary of the results follows. Note that percentages are based on the total number of survey responses rather than responses to individual questions. 1. Do you use the El Cerrito Library, located at 6510 Stockton Ave, El Cerrito? 228 Yes 86% 38 No 14% 2. If so, how often? 76 A few times per year 28% 91 1 – 3 times per month 34% 36 4 – 5 times per month 14% 21 More than 5 times per month 8% Other Comments: 14 responses: I download audiobooks. I used to go more, but don't really feel comfortable due to getting asked to leave. maybe once every 2 months maybe once per year Not often. The building is depressing and the collections are poor. once every other month only a handful of times since moving to El Cerrito Probably about 8-9 times a year Sometimes two or three times a week. They are just places for lazy parents to leave their kids after school instead of a daycare. DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- 3. Do you use other libraries in the area? 188 Yes 71% 69 No 26% 4. If you use other libraries, which ones do you use? 95 Berkeley 36% 87 Albany 33% 71 Kensington 27% 28 Richmond 11% 5 Kiosk at El Cerrito Del Norte BART station 2% Other Libraries Used: 11 San Francisco 7 Orinda 7 UC Berkeley 5 El Sobrante 5 San Pablo 4 Oakland 3 Hercules 2 Alameda 2 Contra Costa Library System ILL 2 Danville 2 Lafayette 2 Walnut Creek 1 Davis 1 El Cerrito High School Library 1 Emeryville 1 Fremont Main Library 1 Harding Elementary School's Library 1 Hayward (where my grandkids live) 1 Marin Co 1 Martinez 1 Mill Valley 1 North Berkeley 1 Pinole 1 Pleasant Hill 1 San Mateo 1 Woodland DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- 5. If you do not use the El Cerrito Library, why not? 9 I don’t have a Library card 3% 8 I don’t know what the Library has to offer 3% 14 I don’t feel comfortable or welcomed at the Library 5% 2 I don’t have any transportation 1% 3 I don’t know where the Library is located 1% 11 I don’t know the hours the Library is open 4% 5 The Library is too far away from my home 2% 30 The collection doesn’t include what I want or like 11% 12 I buy my own books, magazines etc. 5% 8 I buy e-books 3% 20 Library hours are not convenient 8% Other Comments: Responses have been aggregated in the following categories 13 Poor/Inadequate Building Condition 8 Inadequate Collection 5 Location 4 Parking Limitations 3 Lack of Space 2 Inadequate Open Hours 2 Staff 1 Children's Space Inadequate 1 Disabled Access 1 Lack of Electrical Outlets 1 Programming Inadequate 6. What is most important improvement to make at the El Cerrito Library? Please list up to 3 improvements. Note: responses were categorized and tallied to show their frequency as first, second and third item listed. Then all responses were cumulated to show overall frequency. First Item Listed 47 Improved Collection 31 More Space 25 Improved Environment - Lighting, quiet, comfortable 18 Improved Hours 17 Improved Children's Space 16 Improved Technology 15 Improved Building - Sense of Place, Seating, People Space 11 Improved Programming +/or Meeting Room Space 8 Improved Parking 5 Improved Location 1 Food + Drink 1 Disabled Access 1 Earthquake Safety 1 Tool Library DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- Second Item Listed 33 Improved Collection 29 Improved Environment - Lighting, quiet, comfortable 24 Improved Building - Sense of Place, Seating, People Space 17 Improved Programming +/or Meeting Room Space 16 Improved Hours 16 More Space 15 Improved Technology 9 Improved Children's Space 9 Improved Parking 5 Improved Staffing 4 Improved Location 1 Earthquake Safety 1 Tool Library 1 Improved Teen Space + Programs Third Item Listed 21 Improved Collection 20 Improved Programming +/or Meeting Room Space 19 Improved Building - Seating, People Space 17 Improved Technology 15 Improved Hours 13 Improved Environment - Lighting, quiet, comfortable 10 Improved Parking 9 More Space 7 Improved Children's Space 4 Food + Drink 4 Improved Location 4 Improved Staffing 3 Improved Teen Space + Programs 2 Community Partnerships 2 Student Support 2 Sustainable Design 1 Disabled Access 1 Free Access to Information 1 Used Book Store Combined Responses 101 Improved Collection 67 Improved Environment - Lighting, quiet, comfortable 58 Improved Building - Seating, People Space 56 More Space 49 Improved Hours 48 Improved Programming +/or Meeting Room Space 48 Improved Technology 33 Improved Children's Space DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- 27 Improved Parking 13 Improved Location 9 Improved Staffing 5 Food + Drink 4 Improved Teen Space + Programs 2 Community Partnerships 2 Disabled Access 2 Earthquake Safety 2 Student Support 2 Sustainable Design 2 Tool Library 1 Free Access to Information 1 Used Book Store 7. What are the most important features you would like to see included in a new library for El Cerrito? Please prioritize each item below. Very Important Somewhat Important I’m neutral about this Not Important Good architectural design 111 93 39 8 Flexible space for reading, study and collaboration 163 68 19 3 Flexible space for special programs and events 127 81 35 7 Better/more parking 105 84 49 15 Better noise control/acoustics 94 100 42 11 Fireplace 10 20 68 151 Secure, covered bicycle parking 68 85 73 25 More display/browsing shelves 98 101 45 9 Enclosed group study/collaboration rooms 77 91 69 9 A better/larger room for meetings 78 91 66 14 More seats for studying 99 96 49 3 More lounge seats 74 107 57 11 Better parent/child space 114 66 63 7 Quiet reading space 138 81 30 4 More electrical outlets for laptop users 120 74 46 8 Larger/better space for children and families 107 80 56 6 Separate teen area 64 104 64 17 Space for computer training classes 55 102 69 16 After school homework/tutoring space 89 101 46 12 A digital lab or maker space / hacker space 47 62 94 39 Good natural light 181 59 10 2 Special space/shelving for El Cerrito history 45 83 94 26 Cafe to buy and consume food/drink at the library 32 51 80 85 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- Other Comments: Locate near public transportation. Keep great tables & chairs, and order others to match (if more needed) great mcm design! An outdoor children's playground/gym (this will create a community space, where kids could associate reading/learning with playing) Appealing entry and adjacent outdoor spaces, proximity to other services Better hours- longer and earlier Better, bigger collection of material--very important!! Books are going to be a smaller part of available media, computers, podcasts, downloadable media important. A collaboration w/Starbucks for a cafe space might be good. However, it may not be accepted by local businesses. Central, convenient location Check out Albany and the new South Berkeley library and N. Berkeley libraries for layout ideas Close to urban amenities-- better pedestrian access - close to related activities, welcoming on FOOT. Community access/rental to a commercial kitchen for small scale food preparation (and classes) Core services matter most--shelving for materials and investment in collection, over things like maker spaces, separate teen areas, etc... Don't believe the EC Library would end up 'big' enough to be able to support a cafe. Enough staffing to perform the extra services and hours that are put in place. I think current library is fine and will vote against any new library I would definitely expect this possible new library to be more radiant, with greater natural lighting, and a naturalistic feel. And as for more outlets: adding in adapters for users, would probably work just as fine, maybe even better, due to the fact that it's long cord would make it more accessible. I'd love to see community events, lectures, classes, book groups, concerts..etc. If there were a cafe, make it outside/separate from library. Cafe mindset is different from library mindset. LEED-certified would be very nice. Location near public transportation More flexible rules and a friendlier staff (ala Albany and Richmond library) More photocopiers/printers More selection on books, videos, More space for more books More space, more books, more staff! No "hackerspace"... What are you even talking about?...A cafe to eat in the library seems like it would make the place dirty and smell bad. No cafe or food consumption in the library! Places to post info on local events Please do not allow food/drink at the library. This makes a mess! Reading areas and special collections for seniors Reading nooks Rules governing how many children can be at one computer at a time and child use of computers Secure bicycle parking is good. I'm not sure it needs to be covered. Free wi-fi would serve me better than new computers. Space for tool library The Albany library is a perfect example of what a library should be. DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- 8. What are the most important services or offerings that you would like to see included in a new library for El Cerrito? Very Important Somewhat Important I'm neutral about this Not Important More books 182 53 15 2 More e-books 96 73 62 17 More DVDs 78 95 67 11 More music CDs 33 83 107 20 More audiobooks 71 86 81 11 Literacy tutoring 100 91 43 10 More and/or improved computers 133 78 32 6 Laptops or tablets to use at the library 49 73 94 32 Free wi-fi 182 42 20 4 Computer training classes 66 96 73 11 Video game equipment 2 13 88 140 Exhibits of art by the community 66 117 53 15 Children’s story times and other events 146 59 38 8 Programs for adults 90 99 53 4 Programs for teens 91 92 54 9 Programs for seniors 100 95 50 3 Self checkout 107 85 46 10 Easier pick up for self service holds 75 77 83 12 Magazines to browse 74 112 56 7 Current newspapers to browse 102 84 55 6 Able to ask Library staff for assistance 181 52 12 2 Other Comments: A "Petting Zoo" of different types of eBook readers that patrons can load with eBooks & check out to try different kinds. Sunnyvale Library got a grant from Barnes & Noble to fund it. Access to nature - a good garden Accessibility Better workspace for staff Book & gift store Can pick up books from Links (other libraries), a good online catalog system to hold books and get notifications when they are available for pickup Community meeting room/s for small and up to 50 people sized groups Computer training classes need to go BEYOND simple introductory info. Need more intermediate level! Computer/laptop locks Consider providing limited laptops and tablets for those who do not have them, but these days, most people do have their own. Coordination with senior center for help with matters such as tax preparation and estate planning Digital scanners Enough staff to spend time helping patrons without being rushed How could the pick-up for holds be any easier???! It's already easy! DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- I think the self-service holds are already pretty easy to pick up. Increase reference materials and librarians to help with genealogy and kids' papers Interlibrary loan and link plus services vital to me. Want the reference librarian back! It would be nice to have a native plant garden that people could use computers at and read in at the library. Also, include special events by local authors etc. Maybe include a place to view topical films or have a movie night for teens on the weekend. Library operating like a community center Location near public transportation Maker/hacker space with open activity time and formal classes. Fix-it clinics. Other library resources are a natural support for this activity, exploration and learning More author readings and literary events would be fun. More material for the minority groups. More open hours is very important. Most important is an expanded collection books, DVDs, CDS, periodicals/newspapers New website Please, please, more diverse quality e-books. Programs for school aged children, especially crafts focused on holidays and seasons Secure outdoor space to read, chat, study, hold classes? Story time & activities in different languages, Spanish, Mandarin, Japanese, Tagalog, etc for the diversity of EC's community Traditional needs of the community include literacy, books of many languages, computers for training and for use. VHS and cassettes Video game equipment?! Are you high?! Video games have no place at a library. This is not an arcade. You need to really think about the space you are creating. Already parents use the library as free child care. Is that what you are really going for? People sitting around all day like zombies using free wifi like Starbucks. Yuck. We need a tech savvy library staff that has the most recent relevant library science degrees or the new systems installed will go to waste. 9. Additional Comments Allow for proper wireless security (no open wifi, allow vpn many other considerations - consult experts for configuration) A larger room for small children to enjoy reading. We've been asked to leave the library and that makes us sad and upset. A library should be a playful space A light and large space that the city can be proud of, however the city should strongly consider not spending too much money on a high-profile architect or design firm. The money should be focused on a nice space and excellent location for easy bicycle riding to and from the library. A strong public library supports a strong and thriving community. Albany is a great example of a multigenerational use that attracts many local residents to use it for a variety of uses. A tool lending library akin to http://www.berkeleypubliclibrary.org/about_the_library/neighborhood_branches/tool_lending_library/ Accessibility to mass transit very important. While lower stacks with easy display may be desirable, don't implement this so that it takes away space for others uses (tall shelves = more book space!). Do include a space for the El Cerrito Friends of the Library; I love their offerings and would be pleased to browse/buy from them more often. DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- As noted in responding to a previous survey, I'm actually quite happy with the library as it is, although somewhat more space and a somewhat larger in-house collection would likely be convenient. The county-wide system of bringing books around through hold requests currently works very well as a way of getting maximum access to desired items. I don't think the library should be turned into an everything-for-everyone-for-every-purpose center, as I fear there is ambition to do. The library planning should not be regarded as the place of first and last resort to address current-perceived deficiencies in other parts of the city's public spaces or the West Contra Costa County School District programs. There are other places in the community already where meetings can be held, where special classes can be offered, and where tutoring programs can occur. Keep in mind that eventual operating costs are likely to be substantially increased with a larger facility and a more complex operation! There is still a place for a relatively traditional sort of library, which will certainly be the most achievable and practicable goal. Be sure that all the people want it!! There is nothing wrong with what we have except the hours open! Building a building that can be flexible and enable future enhancements/needs would be wise. Don't let great get in the way of good but also realize that needs, technology, etc. will change and building a building that can adapt to those unanticipated needs would be a prudent use of public funds. Check into the possibility of trading property with Lower area of old Portala site for the current library site. It would be nice to have library & the Senior Center next to the community center. Check out Sacramento Public Library (esp. Valley Hi Branch). Amazing in terms of design and offerings. Libraries are the heart of the community. Keep that in mind when in the planning. Closer to the northern end of El Cerrito...closer to city hall and police station Combine library building with other community space to make a vibrant center for people to gather. Consider moving next to the EC Community Center on the flat area where Portola portables are located. Please make it big. EC is a large enough city to handle it. It would be nice to have rooms that can be rented. Consider noise level of children's activities vs. adults and teens studying or quietly reading. Too much emphasis on self-service instead of knowledgeable, trained staff. Consider that County Library has staffing problems and may not be able to provide high-quality staff. they often use library assistants with few or no skills rather than trained librarians with master's degrees Consider your user demographic. Consider the external environment and keep the architecture compatible. Convenient, easily accessible location. Nice if it was next to a coffee shop and/or senior center. Design the building so that there can be quiet spaces and loud spaces. Do not spend city time money or effort on a library. Spend time bringing new businesses to the city not wasting money on something that there is no need for. Does not need to be LEED as long as made to best current standards. Don't mix food/drink with anything in the library. Food in meeting room OK, but no food prep area, any food must be brought in for the occasion. Anything else is a recipe for disaster. Don't think you should build a new library. Think might make more sense to have another branch in northern part of the city. Easy access by public transportation; keep cozy feel of library; include openable windows; keep open airy feel with lots of windows and outdoor views. Easy access for seniors. On bus lines, near San Pablo Ave. Not near Plaza. More centrally located. Eco-friendly - solar energy, use renewable resources - perhaps an outdoor tranquil space to read/study El Cerrito Library deserves a new building. Energy efficient, add solar panels? LED lighting? Etc. Expand library scope to include/support complementary community services and activities to bring more of a vibrant hub and awareness to the library. Co-locate with an active transportation corridor to support walking biking and transit. Also, car share and bike share resources are just another library/loan-like resource that could be accessed at the library hub. Good hours, open late evenings 2 nights a week, and all weekends, a lot of natural sunlight and open space Green green green. Make it a model of efficiency, both in that it's a good building practice, but also so it demonstrates the importance (and ease!) of efficient building to the public. How about combining the library and senior center in a new multi-level building? DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- I hope you create an inviting space with a lot of natural light. I know many El Cerritans want new library, but I love the current location, am OK with the size, like the design of building. I have been enjoying current location for over 50 years now, would hate to see it move! IMPORTANT: If new library is built, please don't make mistake Albany Library did by building it off a bus line, far from BART. Please! And thanks for asking for our input. I like the current location, it would be great to combine it with a new senior center. I like the one we have, could the new one be similar? I like the native plants that are on the side. I personally think new construction near an existing hub of activity would be best, e.g., the lot of the old Portola Middle school. Or anywhere near the BART stations, making pickup or drop off easier (although it's kinda noisy where it is now). Or near the DMV, making running other errands easier. Or using an empty lot on San Pablo...Mill Valley's Public Library and Seattle's Public library should be used as inspiration. Both are multi-story and feel bigger in the inside than they look from the outside. I prefer other libraries where the staff reliably checks in returned items. when i return written or sound materials (CDs or DVDs) thru the slot, they are too often not checked in and i need to return to the library to show the staff the material re-shelved but not checked in. To make one trip, i have to go during open hours and request immediate check-in. I seem to be the rare person who thinks the library is fine as is. My only issue is that I would love for there to be more books. Last year there was a reduction in the number of nonfiction children's books. The audio book collection is also quite limited. I hate to see the waste (sending to landfill) of materials tearing down a building. I also hate to see the location move. Even though the proposed locations are closer to where I live, the current location is close to the growing business district and Stockton and San Pablo, and, I think, helps support those businesses and the library. I still love a book in the hand but use audio books for my commute and carry a kindle all the time. Computer literacy! I think I have covered it. You have probably figured out that I do not approve the city spending money on a new library. The city has enough problems following the elimination of redevelopment to jump into an expensive project. Work on current buildings and projects owned by the city. Perhaps take a good look at the community center. Our community rooms are shabby and dirty. Perhaps the city needs to think about how all their spaces do double duty. Why would I want to have a community meeting in a room that doubles as (daycare, floral society space, you name it) the rooms are covered with junk all over the walls. If you want to see what the library will be like, take a visit to the downtown Berkeley Library at opening time. A bunch of homeless people and individuals with no prospects waiting for the doors to open so they have a place to while away the hours. No thanks. I think it absolutely needs to be accessible via transportation other than cars. A location with safe bike access is key, and preferably being closer to one of the BART stations. The current location provides good bike/bus access, but is otherwise constrained. I think it's important to focus on improving the selection of books with a separate area for kids / teens, and providing wifi, self checkout, and programs for literacy more than anything else. A library is supposed to function as a space to quietly read or study, in a tranquil environment. So a lot of options in the list above are nice, but unnecessary, or they would add noise and distraction (e.g. video game equipment). Although a coffee area or cafe would be nice if people are studying / writing / reading for long periods of time. I think the children's story time and events is a nice idea. I would like to see additions to the existing building instead of a whole new building. I have very fond memories of visiting the library with my mother as a child and every time I visit, I am reminded of those memories! I'd like to see an outdoor space and playground available, so that young children can go out and play if they're tired of being quiet. It will also serve as a point of community for those to come and play (then ideally go read afterwards); associating learning/reading w/ "fun" and thus strengthening children's perception of learning/library. Also 'green' technology like solar and renewable energy would be a good example to the next generation. Story- time in different languages & multi-lingual DVDs, audio CDs and even language classes for locals to use/sign out. I'd rather see it demolished and put a real business there instead. If possible, locate library near other public buildings to create a civic center area and atmosphere. For example, that former Portola Middle School site or purchase of the DMV site. Avoid locating facility directly on San Pablo Avenue. If this will be a two-story library, have the first level be the photocopiers/printers, check-out, meeting/tutoring areas, reference materials, lounge while the second level have library stacks with separate adult/teen/children areas, study areas with laptop/tablet-friendly tables/desks/cubbies. Including ebooks and free wifi on this list is silly. Those things are county-wide, do not impact a new library space and may skew a survey. That seems sneaky and unethical. Staff is the most important part of a good library! DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- It would be great to make the library very "green" like the recycling center. It would be nice to have a teen and pre-teen area that's more soundproofed. Also a more secure place for scooters, strollers. I have seen high school kids steal scooters etc. It would be nice to have a guard available for a couple of hours after school is finished (approx 2-4). Keep parking separate from Fairmount School. Landscaping, maintenance, exterior appearance Library circulation is continually going up and events are well attended. If a larger, more usable library is created it will indeed be used by, and will improve, the community. Look at what's been done in some local libraries and take away the best from that. do not have the building below street level like the current one Look to the Albany Community Center as a model. It is great to have a pleasant library with a large multi-purpose room. If the new library would be sited next to the Community Center, it would be a similar arrangement. A cafe would be nice, but not as important as other improvements. Make it a better place for kids! Check out the kids’ room in the Iowa City Public Library for inspiration. It's a destination for families. I want that here. Many people use the library for job search. Any programs and or systems to help them would be great. Good data base subscriptions and technology learning tools would be great. Opportunities for volunteers. Maybe make it larger than the other El Cerrito library. More space between book shelves. I can't back up far enough to read the titles. Near public transportation NOT in hills to ensure access by non-drivers. NOTE: I'm a wheelchair user, very conscious of the automobile bias in CAL. Nice landscaping. Outdoor area or patio to study. No video gaming please. None, looking forward to improvements; go there mainly with our young kids for activities and to check out reading materials. Not too far away San Pablo Ave. Parking is the real problem with the current site. Sharing a very limited number of parking spaces with the Senior Center, especially at noon when they serve lunch, and the parking reserved only for the school, makes it impossible to find a place to park. I often time my visits to the library to late afternoon so I can park within a block of the library. Issue #2 - low-level shelving makes it difficult to search for books. It feels like I'm standing on my head to see the titles of books near the floor. Please consider this new library an opportunity to create a community space for all ages and abilities. I want to wake up, walk down to the library, grab a cup of coffee (revenue generating), read the paper, books or magazines. I also want to come back later in the day and have a private space to meet with my club or group. Please do not coincide the library's day off with that of the Kensington Library. Otherwise, we have to go outside of the library system to go to a library on Wednesday. Please expand the collection Please make a separate space for children's books (with a door that closes or is sound-proofed)! My little ones need to be read to out-loud and don't know how to whisper. Other patrons complain that we are making too much noise. I have heard this has been experienced by many families and is why not many of us visit the library much. It would be wonderful if there could be a space where we could enjoy the library with our small children without feeling like we are annoying everyone and then end up being asked to leave. Please place audiobooks, etc., where wheelchair users can actually reach them. Please use this civic opportunity as a way to knit the community together by foot; to spur arts development, to make better places for kids and family. Should be at least Certified LEEDS Gold Space for the El Cerrito Historical Society collection? Space, programs for seniors Streamline your website so suggestions and other messages can be given without hunting for said site (within 10 minutes)! The City should not be concerned about Library services. That's the job of the County Library. The City should be only concerned with the building, and how use of the building builds value in the community. DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- The El Cerrito library is old and out of date. It is too small, with limited facilities for studying/working. In redeveloping the library, El Cerrito has the opportunity to provide its citizen with a much needed indoor public space. I appreciate the work you are doing. The Friends of the El Cerrito Library seem like a very good group that volunteer, raise money and make the library a more welcoming place. It would be good to continue to give this group a role in any new library. The interior space at the Claremont Library is beautiful with natural light. I would recommend that library as a model to look at. The library needs more hours! The location needs to be easily accessible by children and seniors and those who prefer not to drive everywhere. Ideally it would be located near other businesses and services such as coffee shops and grocery stores. Additionally, although the current location is convenient for me personally, I have had trouble with safety issues because of the proximity to the BART tracks greenway. The main library in San Leandro is a great model to consider, esp. their community events. The staff is great already, as are some of the suggestions above. General updating/ modernizing and space planning is needed. There needs to be a balance between needs and cost. Recent facilities built in Hercules and Walnut Creek seem beyond what those communities required. We are very heavy library users - but we go to Albany or Berkeley. El Cerrito desperately needs a new library. We have lived in El Cerrito for several years but rarely go to the library as we find it inconvenient and not a particularly pleasant space. It is somewhat hidden (so not very welcoming) and the inside is dingy and dated. I far prefer the library in Berkeley and near my work in SF both for their facilities and also because I can drop by them while running other errands or grab a coffee afterwards - the EC location is very isolated. I would also like to see a dedicated children's space where I can read aloud to my kids and they can express some enthusiasm without getting dirty looks from other patrons. I would also like to see an increasing selection of eBooks (like many, I often read on a tablet or phone while commuting) and self-checkout kiosks. I am very glad that the city is addressing the library issue. Libraries, rather than old fashioned, are increasingly important in providing equal technology access and teaching the skills needed to evaluate and make sense of information overload in today's world. But to accomplish that they need to be attractive and service oriented otherwise people will just go to Barnes and Nobles to browse books or to their local Starbucks for studying and meeting. We use the library 2-3 times/week; however, usually just to browse and pick up what we need so we don't hang out there long. What other operating options exist, other than CCC, e.g., LSSI? Would it provide better services? Has the city looked into this option is it even willing to consider the option? Are there other 'consortia' agreements available in operating the library? Is the city open to those options? Is it even aware of other operating options? What added value does the county system add by operating the El Cerrito "branch" library? When I walk into the El Cerrito Library, it feels like I've traveled back in time. The building is outdated, not very welcoming, and limited in resources. It's great to hear that you are conducting a needs survey. This is something that I see frequently from other libraries. DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- APPENDIX B1 El Cerrito Library Space Needs Summary Square Feet 1.1 Public Entrance / Lobby 54 1.2 Community Meeting Room (Dividable) 1,500 1.3 Refreshment Prep Kitchen 66 1.4 Meeting Room Storage 186 1.5 Public Restrooms IN GSF 1.6 Friends' Bookstore 170 1.7 Donation Sorting Space 435 1.8 Café / Vending Area 308 1.9 Community Information 30 2,749 2.1 Express Checkout + Reserves 236 2.2 New Books / Browsing 361 2.3 Media Collection 218 2.4 Service Desk 173 988 3.1 Public Access Computers 492 3.2 Reference Collection 109 3.3 Adult Circulating Fiction Books 797 3.4 Adult Circulating Nonfiction Books 1,195 3.5 International Languages Collection 343 3.6 Quiet Reading / Magazines + Newspapers 544 3.7 Local History / El Cerrito Collection 129 3.8 Literacy Center 289 3.9 Literacy Office 287 3.10 Group Study / Collaboration Room A 120 3.11 Group Study / Collaboration Room B 120 3.12 Group Study / Collaboration Room C 120 3.13 Group Study / Collaboration Room D 200 3.14 Teen Area 854 3.15 Tutoring / Study / Homework Space 752 3.16 Computer Learning + Collaboration Space 436 6,786 4.1 Children's New Books + Media 253 4.2 Children's Public Access Computers 192 4.3 Children's Circulating Books 826 4.4 Family Space 305 4.5 Picture Books + Easy Readers 892 4.6 Storytelling + Class Visits Area 460 4.7 Storytelling + Programming Storage 58 4.8 Family Restroom IN GSF 2,986 5.1 Library Manager's Office 145 5.2 Staff Workroom 667 5.3 Sorting + Returns 457 5.4 Mail + Deliveries 134 5.5 Supplies + Equipment Storage 170 5.6 Server Room 80 5.7 Staff Entrance / Lockers / Coat Closet 54 5.8 Staff Lounge 294 5.9 Staff Restrooms IN GSF 5.10 Custodial / Maintenance Services 123 2,124 Net Assignable Square Feet: 15,633 Gross Square Feet @ 75% Efficiency: 20,845 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- APPENDIX B2 El Cerrito Library Detailed Spaces Summary 2 Quantity Item SF/Item Total SF Needed 1.1 Public Entrance / Lobby display cases, glass-enclosed, wall-mounted, 6'w x 5'h x 1.5'd min overall 1 case 30 30 RFID compatible security gates 1 pair 24 24 total 54 1.2 Community Meeting Room (Dividable) stacking chairs 125 seats 12 1,500 tables, folding, lightweight, 5' x 2' 24 tables 0 0 podium, movable 1 podium 0 0 video/digital projector, ceiling-mounted 1 projector 0 0 projection screen, ceiling-mounted 1 screen 0 0 total 1,500 1.3 Refreshment Prep Kitchen counter, 8' x w double sink, commercial grade, dishwasher, cabinets above + below 1 counter 40 40 refrigerator, full size 1 unit 20 20 microwave oven, on counter 1 oven 0 0 oven with range-top, under counter 1 oven 0 0 trash containers/recycling container 1 container 6 6 total 66 1.4 Meeting Room Storage dollies, mobile, for stacking chairs 12 dollies 8 96 table trucks for folding tables 4 dollies 10 40 equipment racks for meeting room AV media projection equipment 1 rack 10 10 clear space for storage of easals, equipment, other programming supplies 1 space 40 total 186 1.5 Public Restrooms IN GSF 1.6 Friends' Bookstore (Placeholder) display shelving, 72" for books + media on sale 12 SS sections 10 120 display tables, freestanding, 2.5' x 2.5 2 display tables 25 50 secure payment box, wall-mounted 1 payment box 4 4 total 170 1.7 Donations Sorting Space (Placeholder) donation dropoff point / bin (placeholder) 1 dropoff bin 12 12 desk/workspace with computer for processing online sales 1 desk 40 40 shelving, 84", for online sales items 4 sections 10 40 supply cabinet, 2-door, for online supplies storage 1 cabinet 20 20 work tables, 8' x 3' for processing/sorting donations 2 tables 40 80 book truck parking 6 trucks 8 48 clear floor space for incoming donations, temp storage, shipments to recycling 1 space 75 75 shelving, 84", for sorting and storage 12 sections 10 120 total 435 1.8 Café/Vending Area (Placeholder) coffee vending machine, tabletop unit 1 machine 6 6 cold drinks vending machine 1 machine 15 15 snack counter / vending machine 1 machine 15 15 condiments table, 4' x 2' 1 table 16 16 café tables + seating 8 seats 20 160 laptop counter, 18' x 2' 6 seats 16 96 total 308 1.9 Community Information community information display unit, wall-mounted, with brochure & nsp racks, bulletin board & storage below, 6'L x 5'H x 1.5'D 1 unit 30 30 total 30 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- APPENDIX B2 El Cerrito Library Detailed Spaces Summary 3 Quantity Item SF/Item Total SF Needed 2.1 Express Checkout and Reserves express self-checkout machines 3 machines 40 120 shelving 66", for reserves 8 sections 10 80 queuing space 6 people 6 36 total 236 2.2 New Books / Browsing shelving, display, 2.5' x 5' for new + popular books, slatwall display @ either end 8 DS units 42 336 bench, 2-person 1 bench 25 25 total 361 2.3 Media Collection shelving, display, 2.5' x 66"h for DVDs 2 DS sections 42 84 shelving, 66" browse bins for music CDs 1 DS section 17 25 shelving, display, 2.5' x 5' 66" for audiobooks 2 DS sections 42 84 bench, 2-person 1 bench 25 25 total 218 2.4 Service Desk staff counter positions with computer workstations + staff printer (1 for Library Accounts, 1 for Information) 2 positions 50 100 cash register 1 machine 0 0 laptop/tablet storage/recharging station, 12-unit capacity, w 12 devices 1 storage unit 12 12 book truck parking 2 trucks 8 16 shelving, wall-mounted, for secure reserves, etc. 1 sections 10 10 library card application workstation, self-service 1 workstation 35 35 total 173 3.1 Public Access Computers computer workstations, sitdown 16 30 480 networked printers/print release station 1 printer 12 12 total 492 3.2 Reference Collection seating @ 2-pl tables 2 seats 25 50 shelving, 66", for reference books 0.5 DS section 17 9 copy machine, freestanding 1 machine 30 30 debit card dispenser, change machine 1 each 4 4 copier storage cabinet with work counter + small eqpt 1 cabinet 16 16 total 109 3.3 Adult Circulating Fiction Books shelving, 66" for fiction 25 DS sections 17 425 shelving, 66" for mysteries, science fiction 7 DS sections 17 119 shelving, 66" for large print books 3 DS sections 17 51 online catalog stations, standup @ stack ends 2 16 32 seating @ 2-pl tables 4 seats 25 100 seating, lounge chairs 2 seats 35 70 total 797 3.4 Adult Circulating Nonfiction Books shelving, 66" for adult nonfiction, biographies 39 DS sections 17 663 shelving, 66" for teen nonfiction 2 DS sections 17 34 online catalog stations, standup @ stack ends 2 16 32 seating @ 2-pl tables 12 seats 25 300 laptop / study counter 6 seats 16 96 seating @ lounge chairs 2 seats 35 70 total 1,195 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- APPENDIX B2 El Cerrito Library Detailed Spaces Summary 4 Quantity Item SF/Item Total SF Needed 3.5 International Languages Collection shelving, 66", for International language books 6 DS sections 17 102 shelving, 66" for J International languages F/NF/picture books 4 DS sections 17 68 shelving, 66", for International languages DVDs 0.5 DS section 17 9 shelving, 66" for International languages music compact discs 0.3 DS section 17 6 shelving, 66", for ESL & Language learning materials 0.4 DS section 17 7 shelving, 66" for International languages magazine/newspaper display 0.6 DS section 26 16 seating, lounge chairs 1 seat 35 35 seating @ 2-pl tables 4 seats 25 100 total 343 3.6 Quiet Reading / Magazines + Newspapers shelving, 66" for magazine current issue display and backfiles below 3 DS sections 26 78 shelving, 66" for newspaper display of current/recent issues 0.6 DS section 26 16 seating, lounge chairs 10 seats 35 350 seating @ 2-pl tables 4 seats 25 100 total 544 3.7 Local History / El Cerrito Collection shelving, 66" for local history, documents, EIRS 0.5 DS section 17 9 display case, glass-front, for exhibits 4'x4'x1.5', wall-mounted 1 case 20 20 lateral file, 3-drawer 1 cabinet 15 15 seating @ 2-pl table 2 seats 25 50 seating @ lounge chairs 1 seats 35 35 total 129 3.8 Literacy Center tables, rectangular, 2-person, with removable carrel dividers 6 seats 25 150 shelving, 66" for adult literacy collection 3 DS sections 17 51 shelving, 66" for magazine current issue display 0.6 DS section 26 16 computer workstations, sitdown 2 30 60 networked printer/print release station 1 printer 12 12 total 289 3.9 Literacy Office work station, 8' x 6' + 25% circ space, for literacy staff 1 60 60 table, 2-person + 2 chairs, for student + tutor intake interviews 1 table 50 50 shelving, 84", for literacy tutoring consumables 6 sections 10 60 shelving, industrial, 80", for training supplies 6 sections 12 72 shelving, display, for new tutoring materials, new literacy titles 1 section 15 15 supply cabinet, 2-door, 6' wide x 6' high 1 cabinet 30 30 total 287 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- APPENDIX B2 El Cerrito Library Detailed Spaces Summary 5 Quantity Item SF/Item Total SF Needed 3.10 Group Study / Collaboration Room A table, conference 1 table 0 0 seating @ conference table 4 seats 30 120 total 120 3.11 Group Study / Collaboration Room B table, conference 1 table 0 0 seating @ conference table 4 seats 30 120 total 120 3.12 Group Study / Collaboration Room C table, conference 1 table 0 0 seating @ conference table 4 seats 30 120 total 120 3.13 Group Study / Collaboration Room D table, conference 1 table 0 0 seating @ conference table 8 seats 25 200 total 200 3.14 Teen Area shelving, display, 2.5' x 5' for teen new + popular books 1 DS section 42 42 shelving, 66", for teen fiction / graphic novels 7 DS sections 17 119 shelving, 66" for teen audiobooks 1 DS section 17 17 shelving, 66" for teen magazine display + backfiles 0.6 DS section 26 16 computer workstations, sitdown 2 30 60 online catalog stations, standup @ stack ends 1 16 16 seating @ 4-pl café tables 8 seats 20 160 seating @ 4-pl diner booths 8 seats 25 200 casual lounge seating 8 seats 16 128 laptop / study counter 6 seats 16 96 wall-mounted display boards 2 boards 0 0 total 854 3.15 Tutoring / Study / Homework Space seating @ 2-pl tables, 24" x 42" 12 seats 20 240 seating @ 4-pl tables, 30" x 60" 16 seats 20 320 computer workstations, sitdown 4 30 120 networked printers/print release stn 1 printer 12 12 shelving, 84", for reserve textbook collection 1 section 10 10 supply cabinet, 2-door, for supplies 1 cabinet 20 20 monitor's desk + computer workstation (placeholder) 1 desk 30 30 total 752 3.16 Computer Learning + Collaboration Space laptop/tablet storage/recharging station, 12-unit capacity, w 12 devices 1 storage unit 12 12 seating @ 2-pl work tables, 30" x 48" 8 seats 20 160 computers, sit-down, enhanced/specialized equipment 4 35 140 networked printers/print release stn 1 printer 12 12 supply closet 1 closet 50 50 monitor/instructor's desk + computer workstation (placeholder) 1 desk 50 50 video/digital projector, ceiling-mounted 1 projector 0 0 projection screen, ceiling-mounted 1 screen 0 0 green screen 1 space 12 12 white board, wall-mounted, interactive 1 board 0 0 total 436 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- APPENDIX B2 El Cerrito Library Detailed Spaces Summary 6 Quantity Item SF/Item Total SF Needed 4.1 Children's New Books + Media shelving, display 2.5' x 5' for children's new books 3 DS sections 42 126 shelving, 66" display for J magazines, with backfiles underneath 0.5 DS section 26 13 shelving, 66" for J DVDs 2 DS sections 17 34 shelving, 66" AV browsing for J music CDs 0.4 DS section 17 6 shelving, 66" for J audio books 1 DS section 17 17 shelving, 60" w hang-up rods for J AV media kits 1 DS section 17 17 express self-checkout machine 1 machine 40 40 total 253 4.2 Children's Public Access Computers computer workstations, sitdown, with 2 low seats @ each 6 30 180 networked printer/print release station 1 printer 12 12 total 192 4.3 Children's Circulating Books shelving, 66" for J fiction 13 DS sections 17 221 shelving, 66" for J large print 0.4 DS section 17 6 shelving, 66" for J nonfiction/biography 19 DS sections 17 323 seating @ 2-pl tables 8 seats 25 200 lounge seats or window seats 2 seats 30 60 online catalog stations, standup @ stack ends 1 16 16 total 826 4.4 Family Space lounge seats, parent/child 2 chairs 30 60 seating @ 4-person tables, mobile, round for toddlers 8 seats 20 160 computer workstations, sitdown, child-height, 2 seats each 2 30 60 space for interactive manipulatives (placeholder) 1 space 10 10 cabinet for puzzle and toy storage 1 cabinet 15 15 total 305 4.5 Picture Books + Easy Readers shelving, 45" for picture books/toddler books 29 DS sections 17 493 shelving, 45" for easy readers 7 DS sections 17 119 seating @ 4-pl tables, mobile, round for toddlers 8 seats 20 160 lounge seats or window seats 2 seats 30 60 lounge seats, parent/child 2 chairs 30 60 total 892 4.6 Storytelling + Class Visits Area carpeted floor space for children and parents 40 spaces 10 400 stroller parking 10 strollers 6 60 total 460 4.7 Storytelling and Programming Storage shelving, industrial, 80" for puppets, programming props 4 sections 12 48 shelving, 84" for programming collection 1 section 10 10 total 58 4.8 Family Restroom IN GSF DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- APPENDIX B2 El Cerrito Library Detailed Spaces Summary 7 Quantity Item SF/Item Total SF Needed 5.1 Library Manager's Office desk, computer workstation, printer + task chair 1 desk 50 50 table, conference, round, 36" 1 table 60 60 chairs, guest 2 chairs 0 0 shelving, 84", wall-mounted 2 sections 10 20 lateral file, 3-drawer unit 1 cabinet 15 15 total 145 5.2 Staff Workroom work stations, 8' x 6' + 25% circ space, for assigned staff 6 60 360 work stations, 6' x 6' + 25% circ space, for volunteers +/or shared use 3 45 135 work table with 4 chairs, for volunteers + staff 1 tables 40 40 sections full-ht shelving 4 sections 10 40 bulletin board, white board 2 boards 0 0 flat file, 10-drawer, for posters + art supplies 1 file 36 36 work counter, 8' x with cabinets above + below + sink 1 counter 40 40 networked color laser printer 1 printer 16 16 total 667 5.3 Sorting + Returns automated materals handling system, 7-bin 1 sorter 225 225 staff workstations for returns + check-in, 6' x 6' 2 50 100 book truck parking 12 trucks 8 96 shelving, 84" for damaged items/temporary storage 2 sections 10 20 extra return bins for automated sorter 2 bins 8 16 total 457 5.4 Mail + Deliveries mail delivery sorting counter, 6' x 3' 1 counter 30 30 delivery box stacking space (4 stacks @ 4 boxes each) 4 stacks 4 16 book truck parking 4 trucks 8 32 clear floor space for receiving & unpacking shipments 1 space 50 50 trash container, large 1 unit 6 6 total 134 5.5 Supplies + Equipment Storage shelving, 84", for general supplies 6 sections 10 60 clear floor space for box storage 1 space 50 50 shelving, 84", for literacy supplies 6 sections 10 60 total 170 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- APPENDIX B2 El Cerrito Library Detailed Spaces Summary 8 Quantity Item SF/Item Total SF Needed 5.6 Server Room equipment racks 2 racks 30 60 supply cabinet, 2-door, for IT supplies storage 1 cabinet 20 20 total 80 5.7 Staff Entrance / Lockers / Coat Closet lockers, half-height, 2 per stack (for 12 people) 6 stacks 5 30 coat closet, 6' x 3' 1 closet 24 24 total 54 5.8 Staff Lounge seating @ 4-person tables 8 seats 22 176 sofa, 2-person 1 sofa 50 50 counter, 8' x w double sink, commercial grade, cabinets above + below 1 counter 40 40 dishwasher, under counter 1 unit 0 0 refrigerator, full size 1 unit 20 20 microwave oven, on counter 1 oven 0 0 trash containers/recycling containers 2 containers 4 8 bulletin board, wall-mounted 1 board 0 0 total 294 5.9 Staff Restrooms IN GSF 5.10 Custodial / Maintenance Services shelving, industrial, 80" for supplies storage 4 sections 12 48 supply cabinet, 2-door, for secure supplies storage 1 cabinet 20 20 clear space for boxed, bulk storage 1 space 30 30 mop sink, floor-mounted w mop storage, wall-mounted 1 space 25 25 total 123 Total Net Assignable Square Feet: 15,633 Total Gross Square Feet @ 75% Efficiency: 20,845 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- APPENDIX B3 El Cerrito Library Collection Growth Plan Adult Teens Children Total Total Physical Book + Media Collection: 60,300 Audiovisual Media 6,800 11% Books 53,500 89% Books 29,950 3,250 20,300 53,500 56% 6% 38% Media 4,600 200 2,000 6,800 68% 3% 29% Total 34,551 3,450 22,300 60,300 Books Adult Teens Children Total Reference Collection 25 25 New Books/Browsing Collection 2,500 250 1,000 3,750 Mysteries/Science Fiction 2,500 2,500 Fiction/Graphic Novels 8,500 2,500 4,500 15,500 Nonfiction/Biographies 12,625 500 6,000 19,125 Local History 50 50 International Languages F/NF 2,000 1,200 3,200 Large Print 750 100 850 Picture Books/Toddler Books 6,000 6,000 Easy Readers 1,500 1,500 Adult Literacy Collection 1,000 0 1,000 Total Books: 29,950 3,250 20,300 53,500 Audiovisual Media DVDs / Videos 1,500 1,200 2,700 DVDs / Videos - International languages 250 250 Music Compact Discs 1,000 250 1,250 Music Compact Discs - International Languages 250 250 Audiobooks (F/NF) 1,500 200 400 2,100 AV Media Kits (book + CD) 150 150 ESL/Language Learning 120 120 Total Media 4,620 200 2,000 6,820 Total Books & Media: 34,570 3,450 22,300 60,320 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- APPENDIX B4 El Cerrito Library Collection and Shelving Needs 10 BOOK STACKS = Standard steel shelving footprint is 3' x 1' and is allocated 17 SF per double-sided section. BROWSING = Display shelving footprint is 5' x 2.5' and is allocated 42 SF per double-sided section. MAGAZINE/NEWSPAPER = Slanted shelves with flat shelf below for recent issue storage and allocated 26 SF/double-sided section. % on Shelf Items Shelf Type Items/LF LF Needed Sections Needed Sections (rounde SF Needed Items in 2025 Adult Books Reference Collection 3.2 Reference books 25 100% 25 66"/4 sh 7 4 0.1 0.5 9 3.7 Local History / El Cerrito Collection 50 100% 50 66"/5 sh 7 7 0.2 0.5 9 Total Reference Collection 75 75 11 0 1 17 Circulating Books 2.2 New Books/Browsing Collection 2,500 66% 1,650 66"/5 sh, display gondola, 2.5' x 5' 4 413 8.3 8 336 3.3 Mysteries/Science Fiction 2,500 70% 1,750 66"/5 sh 8 219 7.3 7 119 3.3 Fiction 8,500 70% 5,950 66"/5 sh 8 744 24.8 25 425 3.3 Large Print 750 75% 563 66"/4 sh 8 70 2.9 3 51 3.4 Nonfiction/Biographies 12,625 75% 9,469 66"/5 sh 8 1,184 39.5 39 663 3.5 International Languages Collection 2,000 70% 1,400 66"/5 sh 8 175 5.8 6 102 3.8 Adult Literacy 1,000 70% 700 66"/5 sh 8 88 2.9 3 51 Total Adult Circulating Books 29,875 21,481 2,891 91 91 1,747.0 Total Adult Books 29,950 21,556 2,902 92 92 1,764.0 Teen Books 3.4 Teen Nonfiction (interfiled with Adult NF) 500 75% 375 66"/5 sh 8 47 1.6 2 34 3.14 Teen New Books 250 66% 165 66"/5 sh, display gondola, 2.5' x 5' 4 41 0.8 1 42 3.14 Teen Fiction/Graphic Novels 2,500 66% 1,650 66"/5 sh 8 206 6.9 7 119 Total Teen Books 3,250 2,190 294 9 10 195.0 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- APPENDIX B4 El Cerrito Library Collection and Shelving Needs 11 % on Shelf Items Shelf Type Items/LF LF Needed Sections Needed Sections (rounde SF Needed Children's Books: 4.1 New Books 1,000 66% 660 66"/5 sh, display gondola, 2.5' x 5' 4 165 3.3 3 126 4.3 Children's Fiction 4,500 70% 3,150 66"/5 sh 8 394 13.1 13 221 4.3 Children's Large Print 100 70% 70 66"/4 sh 8 9 0.4 0.4 6 4.3 Nonfiction/Biography 6,000 75% 4,500 66"/5 sh 8 563 18.8 19 323 3.5 Children's International Languages Collection 1,200 70% 840 66"/5 sh 8 105 3.5 4 68 4.5 Picture Books/Toddler Books 6,000 70% 4,200 45"/3 sh 8 525 29.2 29 493 4.5 Easy Readers 1,500 70% 1,050 45"/3 sh 8 131 7.3 7 119 Total Children's Books 20,300 14,470 1,891 75 75 1,356.2 Total Book Collection: 53,500 38,216 5,088 177 177 3,315.2 Media Collections Adult/Teen Media: 2.3 DVDs 1,500 66% 990 66"/5 sh, display gondola, 2.5' x 5' 10 99 2.0 2 84 2.3 Music Compact Discs 1,000 70% 700 66"/AV browsing, 3 sh 20 35 1.5 1.5 25 2.3 Audiobooks (F/NF) 1,500 66% 990 66"/5 sh, display gondola, 2.5' x 5' 10 99 2.0 2 84 3.5 DVDs - International languages 250 66% 165 66"/5 sh, display gondola, 2.5' x 5' 10 17 0.3 1 21 3.5 Music Compact Discs - International Languages 250 66% 165 66"/AV browsing, 3 sh 20 8 0.3 0.3 6 3.5 ESL/Language learning (all formats) 120 66% 79 66"/4 sh 8 10 0.4 0.4 7 3.14 Teen Audiobooks 200 66% 132 66"/5 sh 8 17 0.6 1 17 Total Adult/Teen Media: 4,820 3,221 284 7 8 244 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- APPENDIX B4 El Cerrito Library Collection and Shelving Needs 12 % on Shelf Items Shelf Type Items/LF LF Needed Sections Needed Sections (rounde SF Needed Children's Media: 4.1 Children's DVDs 1,200 66% 792 66"/5 sh, display gondola, 2.5' x 5' 10 79 1.6 2 84 4.1 Children's Music Compact Discs 250 70% 175 66"/AV browsing, 3 sh 20 9 0.4 0.4 6 4.1 Children's AudioBooks 400 70% 280 66"/5 sh 8 35 1.2 1 17 4.1 AV Media Kits 150 66% 99 60"/4 sh 6 17 0.7 1 17 Total Children's Media: 2,000 1,346 139 4 4 124.2 Total Media Collection: 6,820 4,567 424 11 12 367.8 Total Books & Media: 60,320 42,783 5,511 187 189 3,683.0 Magazines & Nsps Displayed 3.5 Adult International Language Magazine/Nsp Display 15 titles/bkfiles 100% 15 66"/4 slanted sh w flat shelf below for recent issues 1 15 0.6 1 16 3.6 Adult English Language Magazine Display/Backfiles 75 titles 100% 75 66"/4 slanted sh w flat shelf below for recent issues 1 75 3.1 3 78 3.6 Newspapers, English language - Adult Display/ Recent Issues 10 titles 100% 10 66"/4 slanted sh w flat shelf below for recent issues 0.67 15 0.6 0.6 16 3.8 Literacy Center Magazine Display 15 titles 100% 15 66"/4 slanted sh w flat shelf below for recent issues 1 15 0.6 0.6 16 3.14 Teen Magazines 15 titles 100% 15 66"/4 slanted sh w flat shelf below for recent issues 1 15 0.6 0.6 16 4.1 Children's English Language Magazines 12 titles 100% 12 66"/4 slanted sh w flat shelf below for recent issues 1 12 0.4 0.5 13 Total Mag & Nsp Display: 127 127 132 5 5 140 Total Linear & Square Ft Needed: 5,643 193 195 3,823 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- APPENDIX B5 El Cerrito Library Public Seating Needs Space Seating Type # Tables # Seats SF/Chair SF Needed Open Access Seats: General 1.8 Café/Vending Area seats @ café tables 4 8 20 160 1.8 Café/Vending Area laptop / study counter 1 6 16 96 For Adults 2.2 New Books / Browsing bench, 2-person 1 25 25 2.3 Media Collection bench, 2-person 1 25 25 3.2 Reference Collection 2-place tables, rectangular 1 2 25 50 3.3 Adult Circulating Fiction Books 2-place tables, rectangular 2 4 25 100 3.3 Adult Circulating Fiction Books lounge chairs 2 35 70 3.4 Adult Circulating Nonfiction Books 2-place tables, rectangular 6 12 25 300 3.4 Adult Circulating Nonfiction Books laptop / study counter 1 6 16 96 3.4 Adult Circulating Nonfiction Books lounge chairs 2 35 70 3.5 International Languages Collection 2-place tables, rectangular 2 4 25 100 3.5 International Languages Collection lounge chairs 1 35 35 3.6 Quiet Reading / Magazines + Newspapers lounge chairs 10 35 350 3.6 Quiet Reading / Magazines + Newspapers 2-place tables, rectangular 2 4 25 100 3.7 Local History / El Cerrito Collection 2-place tables, rectangular 1 2 25 50 3.7 Local History / El Cerrito Collection lounge chairs 1 35 35 3.8 Literacy Center tables, rectangular, 2-person, with removable carrel dividers 3 6 25 150 Adult Seats subtotal: 72 1812 For Teens 3.14 Teen Area seats @ café tables, 4-pl 2 8 20 160 3.14 Teen Area diner booth seating, 4-pl 2 8 25 200 3.14 Teen Area casual lounge seats 0 8 16 128 3.14 Teen Area laptop / study counter 1 6 16 96 Teen Seats subtotal: 30 424 For Children 4.3 Children's Circulating Books 2-place tables, rectangular 4 8 25 200 4.3 Children's Circulating Books lounge chairs/window seating 2 30 60 4.4 Family Space parent/child lounge seats 2 30 60 4.4 Family Space 4-place toddler tables, mobile 2 8 20 160 4.5 Picture Books + Easy Readers lounge chairs/window seating 2 30 60 4.5 Picture Books + Easy Readers 4-place toddler tables, mobile 2 8 20 160 4.5 Picture Books + Easy Readers parent/child lounge seats 2 30 60 Children's Seats subtotal: 32 760 Open Access Seats Total: 134 2996 Collaboration / Conference Room Seats: 3.10 Group Study / Collaboration Room A seats @ conference table 1 4 30 120 3.11 Group Study / Collaboration Room B seats @ conference table 1 4 30 120 3.12 Group Study / Collaboration Room C seats @ conference table 1 4 30 120 3.13 Group Study / Collaboration Room D seats @ conference table 1 8 25 200 3.15 Tutoring / Study / Homework Space 2-place tables, mobile 6 12 20 240 3.15 Tutoring / Study / Homework Space 4-place tables, mobile 4 16 20 320 3.16 Computer Learning + Collaboration Space 2-place tables, mobile 4 8 20 160 Collaboration / Conference Room Seats Total: 56 1280 Total Open Access Seats: 190 4276 Programming / Meeting Room Seats: 1.2 Community Meeting Room stacking chairs 125 12 1500 4.6 Storytelling + Class Visits Area floor seating 40 10 400 Programming / Meeting Room Seats Total: 165 1900 DRAFT ---PAGE BREAK--- 1/23/2014 APPENDIX B6 El Cerrito Library Computers and Other Equipment Needs Space # Equipment Type Table Units SF/Seat SF Needed Public Access Computers 2.4 Service Desk laptops +/or tablets for in-library use, stored in recharging/storage unit 0 12 0 0 3.1 Public Access Computers sitdown computer 16 16 30 480 3.3 Adult Circulating Fiction Books online catalog @ stack end 0 2 16 32 3.4 Adult Circulating Nonfiction Books online catalog @ stack end 0 2 16 32 3.8 Literacy Center sitdown computer 2 2 30 60 3.14 Teen Area sitdown computer 2 2 30 60 3.14 Teen Area online catalog @ stack end 0 1 16 16 3.15 Tutoring / Study / Homework Space sitdown computer 4 4 30 120 3.16 Computer Learning + Collaboration Space sitdown computer enhanced/specialized equipment 4 4 35 140 3.16 Computer Learning + Collaboration Space laptops +/or tablets for in-library use, stored in recharging/storage unit 0 12 0 0 4.2 Children's Public Access Computers sitdown computer 6 6 30 180 4.3 Children's Circulating Books online catalog @ stack end 0 1 16 16 4.4 Family Space sitdown computers - educational games/early lit 2 2 30 60 Public Access Computers Total: 36 66 1196 Internet Desktop Computers: 30 Public Access Laptops / Tablets: 24 Online Catalog Lookup Stations: 6 Specialty Workstations: 6 Other Public Equipment: 2.1 Express Checkout & Reserves express checkout station 1 3 40 120 2.4 Service Desk library card application workstation 1 1 35 35 2.4 Service Desk laptop/tablet storage + recharging unit, 12- unit capacity 0 1 12 12 3.2 Reference Collection copy machine 0 1 30 30 3.16 Computer Learning + Collaboration Space laptop/tablet storage + recharging unit, 12- unit capacity 0 1 12 12 4.1 Children's New Books + Media express checkout station 1 1 40 40 Other Public Equipment Total: 2 7 209 Public Printers 3.1 Adult Public Access Computers networked printer/print release station 1 1 12 12 3.8 Literacy Center networked printer/print release station 1 1 12 12 3.15 Tutoring / Study / Homework Space networked printer/print release station 1 1 12 12 3.16 Computer Learning + Collaboration Space networked printer/print release station 1 1 12 12 4.2 Children's Public Access Computers networked printer/print release station 1 1 12 12 Public Printers Total: 5 5 60 Total Public Technology: 43 78 1465 DRAFT